10.2 Keys and Trees Review

Front

What is a dichotomous key?

Back

A tool used to identify organisms by answering a series of questions based on their physical characteristics.

Front

What do branch lengths represent on a phylogenetic tree?

Back

The amount of genetic change since divergence.

Front

What is the primary focus when using a dichotomous key?

Back

Physical features of the organisms.

Front

Which organism is the most distantly related to others in a given group?

Back

The organism that shares the least common ancestry with the others.

Front

What characteristics might indicate a new plant species?

Back

Unique physical traits such as leaf shape, flower color, or growth habit.

Front

What is the significance of genetic change in phylogenetic studies?

Back

It helps to understand the evolutionary relationships between species.

Front

How can you identify a spruce tree using a dichotomous key?

Back

By noting its large brown cones and single sharp needles.

Front

What is the role of physical features in taxonomy?

Back

They are used to classify and identify organisms.

Front

What does it mean if two species share a recent common ancestor?

Back

They are more closely related than species that diverged earlier.

Front

Why is it important to observe a plant's characteristics in its environment?

Back

It helps in accurately identifying the species using a dichotomous key.