MGSLG. (2020): Module 2 Unit 1
How to teach phylogenetic trees
A phylogenetic tree is a schematic form that shows the evolutionary relationships within a set of organisms or groups of organisms. Phylo = organism’s phylum group and genetic = from the genes/relationship between the genes.
The
hominin family bush: a simplified version
Hints on interpreting phylogenetic trees: (modified from Mind the Gap:
Grade 12 Life Sciences) When speciation occurs, it is represented as branching on the tree: Each lineage has a part of its history that is
unique and parts that are shared with other lineages: Similarly, each lineage has ancestors that are
unique to that lineage and common ancestors that are shared with other lineages:
Reading
a phylogenetic tree is similar to understanding a family tree. The base of the tree represents the oldest
ancestor and the tips of the branches represent the most recent descendants of
that ancestor. As you move from the base of the tree, to the tips of the
branches, you are moving forward in time.
