Based on this tree, which statement is correct?
A) The human lineage is a basal taxon.
B) Salamanders are a sister group to the group containing lizards, goats, and humans.
C) Salamanders are as closely related to lizards as to humans.
D) Goats are more closely related to salamanders than to humans.

Question

Based on this tree, which statement is correct? 
A) The human lineage is a basal taxon. 
B) Salamanders are a sister group to the group containing lizards, goats, and humans. 
C) Salamanders are as closely related to lizards as to humans. 
D) Goats are more closely related to salamanders than to humans.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the tree, the group containing lizards, goats, and humans is a sister group to the salamander group. This means that salamanders are more closely related to lizards, goats, and humans than they are to any other group. Therefore, choice B is the correct statement. Choice A is incorrect because the human lineage is not a basal taxon, as it has multiple sister groups (including the lineage containing goats and lizards). Choice C is incorrect because the tree shows that salamanders are more closely related to the lizard-goat-human group than to the human lineage. Choice D is incorrect because the tree shows that goats are more closely related to lizards and humans than they are to salamanders.

Based on This Tree, Which Statement Is Correct