USA Biology Olympiad (USABO) Practice Exam

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Which group represents a monophyletic taxon in a cladogram?

  1. A, B, C

  2. A, D, E

  3. A, B, C, D, E, F, and G

  4. B, C, F

The correct answer is: A, B, C, D, E, F, and G

A monophyletic taxon, also known as a clade, consists of an ancestor and all of its descendants. In a cladogram, this means that every member of the group shares a common ancestor that is not shared with any other members outside the group. In this case, the group that includes A, B, C, D, E, F, and G encompasses the largest range of organisms and their common ancestor. Therefore, it represents a complete lineage, with all descendants accounted for. This comprehensive nature is what qualifies it as monophyletic, as it includes the entire group that evolved from a unique common ancestor. Understanding the structure of cladograms is essential; monophyletic groups provide insights into evolutionary relationships and lineage diversification. Thus, the selection of A, B, C, D, E, F, and G accurately identifies a monophyletic taxon because it captures the full evolutionary lineage without leaving any branches unaccounted for, unlike the other mentioned combinations.

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