phylogenetic trees

Phylogenetic trees are diagrams that illustrate the evolutionary relationships among different species or groups of organisms. They resemble family trees, showing how various species diverged from common ancestors over time. The branches represent evolutionary paths, with shorter branches indicating closer relatedness and longer branches suggesting more distant connections. By analyzing these trees, scientists can understand how traits and genes were passed through generations, shedding light on the history of life on Earth. Essentially, phylogenetic trees help us visualize and comprehend the complex web of life and its origins.