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 have two pictures; one of an orange starfish and another of a medium-sized green snake. I am having trouble deciding on this, but I think it is either A or B.
To determine the evolutionary relationship between two organisms, it is important to consider their genetic similarity and physical characteristics. In this case, you have an orange starfish and a medium-sized green snake.
a. Sequencing the same gene in both species to compare their similarity is a valid approach. This method involves analyzing the DNA sequences of a specific gene in both organisms and comparing them. It can provide valuable information about their genetic similarity and evolutionary relatedness.
To use this approach, you would need to extract DNA from the starfish and snake samples and select a gene that is conserved in both species. Then, you would sequence that gene using techniques like PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) and DNA sequencing. Once you have the sequences, you can compare them to determine their similarity and infer their evolutionary relationship.
b. Dissecting specimens of both species to look for homologous structures is also a viable method. This approach involves examining the physical structures of organisms to identify similarities, which can indicate common ancestry.
To apply this approach, you would need to carefully examine the starfish and snake specimens and look for anatomical traits that are similar or share common origin. This could include characteristics such as the presence of similar organs, skeletal structures, or other homologous features. By comparing the structures, you can make inferences about their evolutionary relationship.
Considering your pictures, it would be difficult to determine the evolutionary relationship between the starfish and the snake purely based on their external appearance. Without conducting further genetic or anatomical analysis, it is challenging to make a conclusive determination.
Option A (sequence the same gene in both species) and option B (dissect specimens to look for homologous structures) are both valid approaches, but without additional information or analysis, it is challenging to determine which one would be the most effective and easiest. It may be necessary to gather more data or consult with experts in the field to make a more accurate determination.