Question

Z

X
W
2) A phylogenetic tree represents the hypothetical evolutionary relationships of the four
species shown here. Based on the current classification system used by biologists today,
which statement accurately explains the relationship between these four species?
A) No relationship can be inferred by the information presented in the tree.
B) X and Y have the same genus and species, but W and Z belong to a
different genus.
C) X, Y, and Z are in the same genus, but W belongs to a different genus
since it is extinct.
D) All four species may be related, but each would have a unique scientific
name using binomial nomenclature.

Answer 1

The answer is D) All four species may be related, but each would have a unique scientific name using binomial nomenclature.

Step-by-step explanation:

(Original chart was not attached, make sure to include it in your questions)

Using the process of elimination, you can eliminate options A and C. Option A is incorrect because there is a visible relationship between each of the species, hence the phylogenetic tree, and the branches connecting each one. Option C is incorrect mainly because we cannot determine if W is extinct based on the chart.

Now as you're left with options B and D, you can knock B off the map because X and Y may have the same species, but either way this cannot be established because we are unknown of each organism and their species.

The surest answer will be D as they are evidently all related, and each would have a unique scientific name due to binomial nomenclature.