Question

To apply parsimony to constructing a phylogenetic tree,
A) choose the tree that assumes all evolutionary changes are equally probable.
B) choose the tree in which the branch points are based on as many shared derived characters as possible.
C) base phylogenetic trees only on the fossil record, as this provides the simplest explanation for evolution.
D) choose the tree that represents the fewest evolutionary changes, either in DNA sequences or morphology.
E) choose the tree with the fewest branch points.

Answer 1

Answer:

D) choose the tree that represents the fewest evolutionary changes, either in DNA sequences or morphology.

Explanation:

Parsimony is a concept applied while constructing a phylogenetic tree. According to it the best tree is constructed by fewest evolutionary changes, either in DNA sequence or morphology. Complicated changes should be present as less as possible in a tree.

For example, suppose vertebrate relationship can be explained using two trees. Tree A has six evolutionary changes and evolution of bony skeleton occurs once. Tree B has seven evolutionary changes and evolution of bony skeleton occurs twice at different spots. Tree A will be preferred because it explains the vertebrate relationship in a less complicated way than Tree B.