Final answer:
Genes derived from the same ancestral gene within a species are paralogous genes, which perform related but distinct functions. When studying cladistics, shared derived traits are important for identifying evolutionary relationships. The universal genetic code is an example of a homologous characteristic shared by all species.
Step-by-step explanation:
Two or more genes that are derived from the same ancestral gene are referred to as paralogous genes. These genes have evolved within a species and typically perform related but distinct functions. On the other hand, orthologous genes are found in different species, and they arise from a single ancestral gene due to speciation. Homologous genes include both paralogous and orthologous genes and indicate some level of shared ancestry. In contrast to these, analogous traits are similar because of convergent evolution, not common ancestry, and are often the result of similar environmental pressures.
When studying evolutionary relationships using cladistics, the kind of trait that is important is shared derived traits, as these are traits shared by members of a group that are unique to that group when compared with other groups. This helps scientists build phylogenies that reflect evolutionary pathways. Significantly, the genetic code is a homologous characteristic shared by all species as a result of a common ancestor in the deep past, underlying the universality of genetic information across diverse forms of life.