Building Phylogenies

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to building phylogenies, including traits, molecular data, and the pros and cons of different data types used in constructing phylogenetic trees.

Phylogenetic Tree

A diagram showing the evolutionary relationships among various biological species based on their physical and genetic characteristics.

Molecular Data

Information derived from the analysis of DNA sequences used for constructing phylogenetic trees.

Traits

Characteristics or features that can be used to determine the relationships among species, such as vertebrae, jaws, or hair.

Pros of Molecular Data

Provides thousands of characters for analysis, enabling detailed comparison of species.

Cons of Molecular Data

High cost and not useful for fossilized or rare species.

Amniotic Egg

A type of egg that contains a protective amniotic membrane, characteristic of certain vertebrates, which helps in their evolutionary classification.