Unless a derived character state is lost or replaced by newer characters over evolutionary time, ____ can serve as markers for ____ lineages that underwent adaptive radiation.
A) apomorphies; polyphyletic
B) apomorphies; paraphyletic
C) synapomorphies; monophyletic
D) synapomorphies; polyphyletic
E) synapomorphies; paraphyletic

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Synapomorphies are derived character states shared by a group of organisms, indicating a common ancestry. They can serve as markers for monophyletic lineages, which include an ancestral species and all its descendants, and are often identified through adaptive radiation.

Unless a Derived Character State Is Lost or Replaced by Newer