The trait that would be least useful in a phylogenetic analysis would be one that
A) is detectable only in observations of early development.
B) involves genetically inherited behaviors.
C) is altered easily by small changes in diet.
D) can be studied only in museum specimens.
E) is heritable but is determined by many genes.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Traits that are easily altered by environmental factors, such as diet, are less useful in phylogenetic analysis because they may not accurately reflect evolutionary relationships. Traits that are stable and less influenced by the environment are more reliable for determining phylogenetic relationships.

The Trait That Would Be Least Useful in a Phylogenetic