How to Distinguish Between Similar Traits in a Phylogenetic Tree?

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on constructing a phylogenetic tree to illustrate the evolutionary relationships among seven organisms: dog, human, kangaroo, snapping turtle, penguin, rhesus monkey, and bullfrog. Participants emphasize the importance of identifying unique derived characteristics at each branching point to differentiate similar traits, particularly between the snapping turtle and penguin, as well as the dog and rhesus monkey. The conversation also addresses the evolutionary age of these organisms, prompting a deeper analysis of their ancestral lineage.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of phylogenetic trees and their construction
  • Knowledge of derived characteristics in evolutionary biology
  • Familiarity with evolutionary relationships among vertebrates
  • Basic skills in drawing and interpreting biological diagrams
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the concept of derived characteristics in phylogenetics
  • Study the evolutionary timeline of vertebrates to determine ancestral age
  • Learn about specific traits that differentiate reptiles and birds
  • Explore software tools for creating phylogenetic trees, such as MEGA or RAxML
USEFUL FOR

Students in biology, evolutionary biologists, educators teaching phylogenetics, and anyone interested in understanding evolutionary relationships among species.

Adriane
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Homework Statement


Draw a phylogenetic tree to illustrate the ancestry of the seven organisms chosen: dog, human, kangaroo, snapping turtle, penguin, rhesus monkey, bullfrog
  • At each branching point, identify the derived characteristic that creates the branch.

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I've attached the chart I created to identify which organism has each trait. I think I might have made a mistake that I can't find, because how am I supposed to create the diagram when the snapping turtle and penguin have the same traits, as well as the dog and rhesus monkey?
 

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Definitely each animal should be unique in some way. Perhaps look for other traits? Something that will make penguin different from the turtle?

Can you start sorting these animals by their "age"? Which one of them seems to be the oldest in evolutionary terms?
 

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