5. Write a claim to answer the essential question. Use the search and phylogenetic tree as evidence to
support or refute. Add reasoning statements to each piece of evidence explaining what your evidence shows
in support or refutation of the essential question.
Caffeine evolution is convergent. Three distinct lines of plants have the enzyme to make
caffeine, they are distantly related, but other groups close to them do not make caffeine.
Claim: Caffeine evolution is convergent. Three distinct lines of plants have the enzyme to make caffeine, they are distantly related, but other groups close to them do not make caffeine.
Evidence 1: Search
To support or refute this claim, we can start by conducting a search to gather information about the distribution of caffeine-making enzymes in different plant groups. By searching for scientific articles, research papers, or reliable sources, we can find relevant information on the topic.
Reasoning:
After conducting a search, we can find studies that have explored the distribution of caffeine-making enzymes across different plant lineages. These studies can provide evidence on the presence of caffeine-producing enzymes in certain plant groups while being absent in others.
Evidence 2: Phylogenetic Tree
To further support or refute the claim, we can analyze a phylogenetic tree, which represents the evolutionary relationships between different organisms. By examining the branching patterns and relationships of caffeine-producing plants in the tree, we can gather evidence about the convergent evolution of caffeine.
Reasoning:
By analyzing a phylogenetic tree, we can observe the placement of different plant groups that possess the enzyme to make caffeine. If we find that these groups are distantly related and have evolved independently, it supports the claim of convergent evolution. On the other hand, if these groups are closely related, it would refute the claim.
Combining the evidence:
To support the claim, we would look for both pieces of evidence to align. If we find studies indicating the presence of caffeine-making enzymes in three distinct, distantly related plant lines and observe a similar pattern in the phylogenetic tree, it would strengthen the claim of convergent evolution of caffeine production.
On the other hand, if we find conflicting evidence, such as studies showing closely related plant groups with caffeine-making enzymes or a phylogenetic tree that does not support convergent evolution, it would weaken or refute the claim.
It is essential to gather as much credible evidence as possible and critically evaluate it to draw a reliable conclusion about the claim.