Which experimental approach would be most effective and easiest to clearly determine the evolutionary relationship between these two organisms?
A. sequence the same gene in both species to compare their similarity.
B. dissect specimens of both species to look for homologous structures.
C. search fossil databases to locate a common ancestor.
D. evaluate cells from both species to determine whether they contain enzymes.
I am unable to put photos on here so I am going to try my best to describe them. One of the photos shows a star fish on the sea floor while the other shows a medium-sized green snake curled around a branch of a tree.
I believe the answer is B, but I'm not sure. Please help.
Ms. Sue, are you able to help me?
To determine the evolutionary relationship between two organisms, the most effective approach would involve comparing their genetic information. This allows for a more accurate analysis of the similarities and differences between species, which can reveal their evolutionary connections.
In this case, option A, sequencing the same gene in both species to compare their similarity, would be the most effective and easiest method. This approach involves extracting DNA from both species and then sequencing a specific gene that is likely to have conserved regions across species. By comparing the sequences of this gene, scientists can determine the level of similarity and infer the evolutionary relationship between the two organisms.
Dissecting specimens (option B) can provide insights into shared anatomical features and possible homologous structures. While this can offer some information on evolutionary relationships, it may not be as clear or accurate as genetic analysis. Additionally, the example you provided showing a starfish and a snake does not necessarily suggest obvious homologous structures.
Searching fossil databases (option C) can provide evidence of past organisms and their characteristics, including potential common ancestors. However, fossils may not always be available or easily identifiable for every species, which may limit the reliability of this method.
Evaluating cells to determine enzyme presence (option D) may provide some information about cellular function, but it is less direct in establishing evolutionary relationships between the two organisms.
Given these considerations, it is most appropriate to choose option A, sequencing the same gene in both species, to clearly determine the evolutionary relationship between the starfish and the snake.