On a phylogram, what do branch lengths represent?
A) the passage of time
B) the amount of evolutionary change
C) how many speciation events have occurred
D) the rate of extinction

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Branch lengths on a phylogram typically represent the amount of evolutionary change (e.g. genetic or morphological differences) that has occurred between different nodes of the tree. Branches that are longer usually indicate greater amounts of evolutionary change, whereas shorter branches indicate less change. However, it is important to note that branch lengths can be influenced by different factors, including the type of data used to construct the tree and the specific methods of phylogenetic analysis employed.

On a Phylogram, What Do Branch Lengths Represent