Final answer:
The classification of taxa is not based solely on shared evolutionary novelties; it is an evolving process that includes morphologic and genetic evidence to construct phylogenetic trees. Cladistics helps clarify evolutionary relationships, though it continually adapts to new findings and discoveries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that phylogenetic classification is solely based on shared evolutionary novelties is false. Instead, classification today is an ongoing process that considers phylogeny through morphologic and genetic evidence to map evolutionary relationships accurately. The Linnaean system initially grouped organisms based on physical traits. With Darwin's evolution theory and advancements like molecular systematics, scientists search for homologous characteristics that signify shared evolutionary ancestry. The goal is to construct phylogenetic trees that reflect these relationships. However, resemblance does not always equate to relatedness; for instance, hippos are more closely related to whales than to pigs. Phylogenetic trees are updated as new discoveries are made, helping represent the dynamic nature of life's evolutionary history.
Cladistics is the methodology that utilizes these homologous traits to establish evolutionary lineage, contrasting with the historical approach that placed heavy emphasis on physical similarities. Cladograms and clades help represent ancient ascendencies and diverse descendants more clearly. Using the principles of maximum parsimony, scientists aim for simple, logical evolutionary sequences when interpreting data. Nevertheless, these methodologies are not without limitations, as they must adapt to the ever-growing body of genetic and morphological data, and to exceptions that challenge simple categorization.