In constructing phylogenetic trees,it is useful to think of monophyletic groups as being defined by ________.
A) apomorphies
B) plesiomorphies
C) synapomorphies
D) clades

Question

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Synapomorphies are shared derived characteristics that are exclusive to a certain monophyletic group, making them useful in defining and constructing phylogenetic trees. A monophyletic group, also known as a clade, consists of an ancestor and all of its descendants. Apomorphies and plesiomorphies are also types of shared characteristics used in phylogenetic analysis, but they may not necessarily define monophyletic groups.

In Constructing Phylogenetic Trees,it Is Useful to Think of Monophyletic