Take a look at the cladogram below, specifically the group of organisms labeled "A" and "B." Compare and contrast the traits of Organisms A and B. What does the sharing of traits suggest about the evolutionary relationships among organisms?

Question

Take a look at the cladogram below, specifically the group of organisms labeled "A" and "B." Compare and contrast the traits of Organisms A and B. What does the sharing of traits suggest about the evolutionary relationships among organisms?

Grading Considerations

Answer must have an explanation of how the sharing of traits corresponds with evolutionary relationships
Answer must compare organisms A and B, and refer to the names of these organisms based on the cladogram.
Include similarities and differences between the two in terms of traits.
The traits must be traits listed on this cladogram.
Answers should be in 3-5 sentences. In an effort to combat plagiarism, answers longer than 6 sentences will not be considered. Answering concisely and to the point is evidence of your understanding of the topic.
(4 points)
0 / 200 Word Limit
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Answer 1

In the cladogram, Organisms A and B are both labeled as Reptiles. They share traits such as having dry, scaly skin and laying eggs on land. However, Organism A has a more derived trait of having feathers, while Organism B has a more ancestral trait of having a jawbone without fenestrae (small openings). The sharing of these traits suggests that Organisms A and B have a common ancestor that was a reptile with dry, scaly skin and the ability to lay eggs on land. The presence of feathers in Organism A indicates a more recent evolutionary adaptation, while the lack of fenestrae in Organism B suggests a more primitive trait.