The Following Questions Refer to the Evolutionary Tree in the Figure

question 31

Multiple Choice

The following questions refer to the evolutionary tree in the figure below.
The horizontal axis of the cladogram depicted below is a timeline that extends from 100,000 years ago to the present; the vertical axis represents nothing in particular. The labeled branch points on the tree (V-Z) represent various common ancestors. Let's say that only since 50,000 years ago has there been enough variation between the lineages depicted here to separate them into distinct species, and only the tips of the lineages on this tree represent distinct species.

-Which of the five species, labeled V-Z, is the common ancestor of the fewest number of species?

• A) V
• B) W
• C) Y
• D) Z

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Definitions:

Charophytes

A group of green algae thought to be the closest relatives of land plants.

Probable Ancestors

The most likely predecessors or early forms of living organisms from which others have descended.

Algae

Photosynthetic, predominantly aquatic organisms, ranging from single-celled forms to giant kelps, that are not classified as plants, animals, or fungi.

Spore-Forming Capsules

Structures produced by certain bacteria and plants that encase and protect spores until they're released into favorable conditions for growth.