The _______ of a phylogenetic tree represents the common ancestor, the _______ represent places where lineages diverge, and the _______ axis represents time.(Assume that the tree is oriented as depicted in the textbook.)
A) node; roots; horizontal
B) root; nodes; vertical
C) root; branches; horizontal
D) root; nodes; horizontal
E) root; branches; vertical

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The node of a phylogenetic tree represents the common ancestor, while the nodes represent places where lineages diverge. The horizontal axis represents time, as phylogenetic trees are meant to show the evolutionary relationships between organisms over time. Therefore, choice D is the correct answer.

The _______ of a Phylogenetic Tree Represents the Common Ancestor