The gene that encodes small-subunit ribosomal RNA is useful for reconstructing the phylogeny of all organisms,because ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene is useful for reconstructing the phylogeny of all organisms because it is subject to strong stabilizing selection, has a conserved function that has stayed unchanged throughout evolution, and all organisms have ribosomes with similar composition and structure. Furthermore, all organisms have this gene, making it a useful marker for comparing evolutionary relationships.

The Gene That Encodes Small-Subunit Ribosomal RNA Is Useful for Reconstructing