Question

Draw a simple phylogenetic tree for two sister clades with a common ancestor. Define the following terms and use them to label your diagram: clade, node, root, and branch.

Answer 1

Answer:

• A phylogenetic tree (also known as Evolutionary tree) is a branching diagram that shows the inferred evolutionary relationships among a group of organisms (called taxa).
• Phylogenetic tree is a hypothesis about a relationship and is constructed based on the similarities and differences in their physical or genetic characteristics or the organisms.
• Phylogenetic trees helps in structuring classifications.and helps in organizing information related to biological diversity.

Representation: Simple phylogenetic tree for two sister clads with a common ancestor with labels:

• Clade: a group of two or more taxa (or organisms) that includes both their common ancestor and all their descendants. Clades form a nested hierarchy.
• Node: branch-point in a tree. Each node with descendants represents the inferred most recent common ancestor of the descendants.
• Root: the common ancestor of all taxa
• Branch: The lines within a phylogenetic tree are called branches and it defines the relationship between the taxa in terms of descent and ancestry