Question

Why is it so important for scientists to distinguish between homologous and analogous characteristics before building phylogenetic trees?

a) Homologous characteristics provide a more accurate evolutionary history.
b) Analogous characteristics are more common and easier to analyze.
c) Homologous characteristics evolve due to convergent evolution.
d) Analogous characteristics demonstrate common ancestry more clearly.

Answer 1

Scientists need to distinguish between homologous and analogous characteristics before building phylogenetic trees to accurately determine evolutionary history and common ancestry.

Step-by-step explanation:

It is important for scientists to distinguish between homologous and analogous characteristics before building phylogenetic trees because homologous characteristics provide a more accurate evolutionary history and can demonstrate common ancestry more clearly. Homologous characteristics share an evolutionary path that led to the development of that trait, while analogous characteristics do not. By determining the type of similarity a feature exhibits, scientists can decipher the phylogeny of the organisms being studied.