what does cladistics?
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cladistics
thx :)
Cladistics is a method or approach in the field of biology used to classify organisms into groups based on their evolutionary history and relationships. It is a way to understand the evolutionary relationships among different species by examining shared characteristics and patterns of divergence.
To understand the concept of cladistics more deeply, it is helpful to know about the following key terms:
1. Clade: A clade is a group of organisms that includes a common ancestor and all of its descendants. Clades are defined based on shared traits or characteristics.
2. Derived traits: Derived traits are characteristics that are unique to a specific group of organisms and their common ancestor. These traits have evolved more recently in the lineage and are used to identify and define different clades.
3. Ancestral traits: Ancestral traits are characteristics that are shared by multiple groups of organisms and their common ancestor. These traits are considered to be primitive or original.
4. Phylogenetic tree: A phylogenetic tree is a diagrammatic representation of the evolutionary relationships among different organisms or groups of organisms. The tree branches represent the evolutionary divergence, and the nodes indicate the common ancestors.
To perform cladistic analysis and determine the evolutionary relationships among organisms, scientists use various data and techniques, including morphology (physical traits), genetics (molecular data), and even behavioral characteristics. These data are then analyzed using specialized computer software to build phylogenetic trees. By comparing and analyzing shared traits and patterns, scientists can identify the clades and relationships between different species.
In summary, cladistics is an important tool in biology that enables scientists to classify organisms based on their evolutionary relationships by identifying shared derived traits and constructing phylogenetic trees.