What is cladistics? What does it means? When do you use it in science?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cladistics
thank you!!!!!!!!!! i couldn't fin what I needed so thanks :)
Cladistics is a method used in biology to classify organisms based on their evolutionary relationships. It groups organisms into clades, which are defined by shared characteristics inherited from a common ancestor.
The word "cladistics" is derived from the Greek word "klados," meaning branch. It emphasizes the branching pattern of evolutionary history and organizes organisms into a tree-like structure, called a phylogenetic tree.
To apply cladistics in science, you typically start by collecting data on various characteristics of different organisms, such as their morphology, DNA sequences, or behavioral traits. These data are then analyzed to determine the relationships between organisms.
The analysis usually involves constructing a phylogenetic tree, where organisms that share more characteristics are considered more closely related. Clades are identified as distinct branches on the tree, representing groups of organisms sharing a particular common ancestor.
Cladistics helps scientists understand the evolutionary history of organisms and provides insights into the patterns and processes of biological evolution. It is frequently used in fields such as evolutionary biology, systematics, and paleontology to classify and study the diversity of life on Earth. By using cladistics, scientists can make predictions about evolutionary patterns, anatomical structures, and genetic relationships among organisms.