Evidence on chromosomal fusion, homology of genes, and gene order on chromosome 2 in humans is often used to support their sister taxa relationship to chimpanzees. Based on these lines of evidence, does the phylogeny below represent the most parsimonious explanation of the evolution of the number of chromosomes in humans and other apes?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

While the evidence mentioned does support a sister taxa relationship between humans and chimpanzees, it does not necessarily require that the phylogeny shown is the most parsimonious explanation for the evolution of chromosome number. Other factors such as fission or inversion events could also play a role.

Evidence on Chromosomal Fusion, Homology of Genes, and Gene Order