Question

In phylogenetic inference, an evolutionary novelty (or derived character) is referred to as _____.

Answer 1

In phylogenetic inference, an evolutionary novelty (or derived character) is referred to as apomorphy. Apomorphy is any character, state or trait novel to a species and its descendants. An apomorphy occurs when a taxon is selected to have a particular trait.

Answer 2

In phylogenetic inference, an evolutionary novelty (or derived character) is referred to as Plesiomorphy

Relating to or denoting the process by which different kinds of living organisms are believed to have developed from earlier forms during the history of the earth.

Thus this is the required answer.