Suppose a population splits into two descendant populations prior to the evolution of dark coloration,then splits again after the evolution of dark coloration.Which of the following terms best describes the dark coloration trait in this situation?
A)Homoplasy
B)Analogy
C)Synapomorphy
D)Symplesiomorphy

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Synapomorphy is a shared derived trait that evolved in a common ancestor and has been inherited by its descendants. In this situation, the dark coloration trait evolved after the first split and was present in both descendant populations, which means it is a synapomorphy. Homoplasy refers to a shared trait that evolved independently in different lineages and does not share a common ancestry. Analogy is a similar trait that evolved through convergent evolution in unrelated organisms. Symplesiomorphy is a shared ancestral trait that is not unique to a particular clade.

Suppose a Population Splits into Two Descendant Populations Prior to the Evolution