How can a phylogenetic tree be used to make predictions?
A)Current trends of evolution will continue into the future. Complex models can be used to accurately predict future branching patterns and the nature of future adaptations.
B)Features shared between two groups are likely to have been present in their common ancestor.
C)Features found in one clade are likely to be found in other clades inhabiting different environments.
D)An existing organism's characteristics can be confidently assumed to fit the patterns in the tree. This procedure eliminates the need to collect data about organisms through direct observation or sampling.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

By analyzing the branching patterns and relationships between organisms on a phylogenetic tree, we can make predictions about shared characteristics and traits that likely existed in their common ancestor. This information can be useful in understanding the evolution of certain traits and making predictions about the presence of those traits in related taxa. However, phylogenetic trees cannot be used to predict the exact sequence of future events or the future evolutionary outcomes of organisms.

How Can a Phylogenetic Tree Be Used to Make Predictions