The Phylogenetic Species Concept

The Phylogenetic Species Concept defines a species as the smallest group of organisms that share a common ancestor and can be distinguished from other such groups by unique genetic traits. In essence, it looks at the evolutionary history and relationships, using genetic information to identify distinct lineages. This approach emphasizes the evolutionary connections and lineage history, helping scientists classify organisms based on their shared ancestry rather than just physical similarities. It provides a clear, evolution-based way to identify and define species in a consistent and scientifically meaningful manner.