phylogenetic tree

A phylogenetic tree is a diagram that shows the evolutionary relationships among different species or groups of organisms. It illustrates how species are interconnected through common ancestors, reflecting their shared history. The branches represent the divergence of species over time, with the root indicating the most recent common ancestor. By analyzing genetic, morphological, and behavioral traits, scientists can construct these trees to better understand biodiversity and evolution, shedding light on how various life forms have evolved and adapted to their environments over millions of years.