Scientists should only use derived traits to construct phylogenies because
A) many fossil species retain only derived traits.
B) derived traits are under greater genetic control than are analogous and homologous traits.
C) all organisms have homologous traits.
D) analogous and homologous traits do not tell us anything about close phylogenetic relationships.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Derived traits are more informative for constructing phylogenies because they indicate evolutionary changes specific to certain lineages, whereas analogous traits result from convergent evolution and homologous traits are shared due to common ancestry, not necessarily indicating close relationships.

Scientists Should Only Use Derived Traits to Construct Phylogenies Because