The following are steps used to construct a cladogram that best reflects the evolutionary relationships of a group of species.Which step involves deciding which tree is most likely to have occurred,based on the fewest character state changes?
A)Polarize the characters.
B)Establish the character states.
C)Gather data on characters to be used.
D)Apply the principle of parsimony.
E)Select an outgroup.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Step D involves applying the principle of parsimony, which involves choosing the tree that requires the fewest character state changes. This is the tree that is most likely to reflect the true evolutionary relationships of the species.

The Following Are Steps Used to Construct a Cladogram That