Question

1. a phylogenetic tree based on genetic similarities is shown.

(phylogenetic tree image)
which numbered location on the phylogenetic tree identifies characteristics shared by species b, c, and d?
a location 1
b location 2
c location 3
d location 4

1. a cladogram of five species is shown.

(cladogram image with turtle, horse, wolf, tiger, house cat)
based on the cladogram, the ancestral species most likely had —
a a vertebral column
b a vertebral column and hair
c sharp teeth and retractable claws
d the ability to purr

Explanation:

Question 3

Step1: Understand Phylogenetic Tree

A phylogenetic tree shows evolutionary relationships. Nodes (locations) represent common ancestors with shared traits. Species B, C, D share a common ancestor at Location 2 (since they branch from node 2).

Step2: Analyze Locations

• Location 1: Ancestor of all species (A, B, C, D, E, F) – too broad.
• Location 2: Ancestor of B, C, D – shared traits here.
• Location 3: Ancestor of B/C/D and E/F – not just B/C/D.
• Location 4: Ancestor of E/F – not B/C/D.

Step1: Interpret Cladogram

A cladogram shows shared derived traits. The ancestral species is at the base (earliest common ancestor). The bottommost trait is "Vertebral column", shared by all species (Turtle, Horse, Wolf, Tiger, House cat).

Step2: Evaluate Options

• A: Vertebral column is at the base (ancestral trait).
• B: Hair is a later trait (Horse, Wolf, etc. have it; Turtle doesn't) – not ancestral.
• C: Sharp teeth (Wolf, Tiger, etc.) and retractable claws (Tiger, House cat) are derived, not ancestral.
• D: Ability to purr (House cat) is very derived – not ancestral.

Answer:

B. Location 2

Question 4