To apply parsimony to constructing a phylogenetic tree,
A) choose the tree that assumes all evolutionary changes are equally probable.
B) choose the tree in which the branch points are based on as many shared derived characters as possible.
C) base phylogenetic trees only on the fossil record, as this provides the simplest explanation for evolution.
D) choose the tree that represents the fewest evolutionary changes, either in DNA sequences or morphology.
E) choose the tree with the fewest branch points.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The principle of parsimony states that the simplest explanation is often the best. Therefore, when constructing a phylogenetic tree, we should choose the tree that represents the fewest evolutionary changes, either in DNA sequences or morphology. This will provide the simplest explanation for the evolution of the organisms in question.

To Apply Parsimony to Constructing a Phylogenetic Tree