BRAINCAKEPhylogeny
The hierarchical classification system is based on supposed evolutionary lines of descent.
This supposed evolutionary relationship is known as phylogeny and can be represented by a phylogenetic tree.
The oldest species is found at the base of the tree, the most recent species are at the end of the branches and lines meet at common ancestors.
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Key terms in this lesson
- gene
- A length of DNA that codes for a specific polypeptide.
More in Classification and Evolution
- Animalia
- Classification
- The Three Domain System
- Archaebacteria and Eubacteria
- Advantages of Phylogenetic Classification
- Theory of Evolution
- Evidence for Evolution
- Palaeontology
All 36 lessons in Classification and Evolution · All OCR AS-level Biology topics