Question

which type of evidence is least likely to result in changes to a phylogenetic tree?
○ dna sequencing
○ fossil record
○ discovery of new species
○ physical characteristics

Explanation:

To determine which evidence is least likely to change a phylogenetic tree, we analyze each option:

• DNA sequencing provides genetic data that can reveal evolutionary relationships, often leading to tree revisions.
• The fossil record gives direct evidence of past organisms, helping refine evolutionary timelines and relationships, so it can change trees.
• Discovery of new species adds new branches or modifies existing ones in the phylogenetic tree.
• Physical characteristics (morphology) can be misleading due to convergent evolution (unrelated species developing similar traits). Modern phylogenetics relies more on molecular and fossil data, so physical characteristics are less likely to drive changes compared to the others.

Answer:

D. physical characteristics