The evolutionary history of a group of organisms can be represented in a branching diagram called a phylogenetic tree. As the name suggests, the branching pattern often matches how taxonomist have classified groups of organisms nested within more inclusive groups. Sometimes, however, the alignment of taxonomy and phylogenetic trees is not accurate. Explain similarities and differences in phylogenetics and taxonomy and why they do not align. Use an example that includes humans as the most recent species of the phylogentic tree.
You should also define the following terms and give examples of phylogenetic trees that describe these terms, including…
MONOPHYLETIC group
PARAPHYLETIC group
POLYPHYLETIC group
For a review of phylogenetic trees, check out this YouTube video below:
How to Understand Evolutionary Trees
D’Souza, L.A. (2013, November 25). How to Understand Evolutionary Trees. [Video]. https://youtu.be/RVW8iIEfiZI
NOTE: Your answer should include figures and/or diagrams. These can be figures that you have created or found based on your research. Creativity will be rewarded! I have some bonus points that I am going to dole out for some of the best answers. So…get creative and do some research!
NOTE: Please make sure to type your posts in the boxes provided. Do not attach a file as your answer. Your initial post and any reply should be visible by everyone without having to download or click on any additional files. Please be sure that figures are INSERTED in the body of your post and NOT included as an attachment. If you are unsure how to do this, I have a tutorial in the WEEK 1: GETTING STARTED IN THE COURSE module called “Attaching/Inserting figures or pictures as part of your answers”. The grading rubric for this assignment is linked above.
As part of a complete initial post, you should have the following items addressed or included:
1. At least one scientific reference (cited in APA format)
2. At least one figure/picture/diagram to support your post. This figure should also be cited properly using APA format.
3. You should make your initial post no later than 11:59 PM on Wednesday each week
4. You should post/reply on at least 3 separate days of the week.
5. You should reply to at least 2 of your fellow student posts so that you meet the minimum number of 3 separate posts (i.e. initial post and 2 replies)
6. Make sure your citations are in APA format
7. Fully address the question(s) being asked in the forum that week.
