Question

When creating a data matrix of shared derived traits for constructing a phylogenetic tree, what number of derived traits should the outgroup share with the other species, and why?

A) The outgroup should share all derived traits.
B) The outgroup should not share any derived traits.
C) The outgroup should share a few derived traits for reference.
D) The number of shared derived traits depends on the species involved.

Answer 1

The outgroup should share a few derived traits for reference in constructing a phylogenetic tree.

Step-by-step explanation:

When creating a data matrix of shared derived traits for constructing a phylogenetic tree, the outgroup should share a few derived traits for reference. This is because the outgroup is used as a reference point to determine the ancestral state of traits. By comparing the traits of the outgroup with the traits of the other species, we can identify which traits are derived and shared among the other species.

For example, if the outgroup shares a few derived traits with the other species, it indicates that those traits are likely ancestral and were present in the common ancestor of all the species. On the other hand, if the outgroup does not share any derived traits with the other species, it suggests that those traits are unique to the species being analyzed.