The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has advanced our understanding of systematics because it allows for ____.
A) analysis of morphological traits
B) analysis of small amounts of DNA from museum specimens and fossils
C) the reconstruction of entire individuals from a small amount of DNA
D) the reconstruction of entire individuals from a small amount of RNA
E) the analysis of an entire genome from a small fossil fragment

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

PCR enables the amplification of small DNA fragments, allowing scientists to analyze genetic material from limited or degraded samples, such as those found in museum specimens and fossils. This has significantly advanced the field of systematics by providing genetic data where it was previously unobtainable.

The Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Has Advanced Our Understanding of Systematics