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Article evaluation:Analysis:

A new method of measuring phylogenetic characteristics is the use of Relative Apparent Synapomorphy Analysis (RASA). The objective of analysis is to determine if a given characteristic is common between taxa as a result of either shared ancestors or the process of convergence. This method allows for several advantages such as computational efficiency and it also administers an unbiased and reliable measure of phylogenetic signal.

Examples in mammals:

In the vertebral column of mammals there is a conserved structure, however, in the Afrotheria clade this is not true. Molecular sequencing has proved that there is an increase in the number of thoracolumbar vertebrae. This is the first unambiguous skeletal synapomorphy of the clade. Afrotheria consists of mammals like shrews, moles, and elephants

counteractive examples in bacteria:

evolutionary relationships of bacteria are classically discussed with respect to gram-negative and gram-positive distribution. It has generally been established that each one shares a common history and are accepted at sharing key features which were not present in past ancestry based upon their gram reaction. The term synapomorphy, in this case meaning common ancestry is now being challenged by new phylogenetic analysis data from highly conserved rRNA genes. The role of Gram stain is now under question.

Phylogenetic similarities:

These phylogenetic terms are used to describe different patterns of ancestral and derived character or trait states as stated in the above diagram in association with synapomorphies.

apomorphy- specialized trait or character that is unique to a group or species

plesiomorphy- the ancestral trait state, usually in reference to a derived trait state

autapomorhy- a distinctive derived trait that is unique to a given taxon.

homoplasy- character shared by a set of species but not present in their common ancestor

Cladogram Comprehension

Cladograms are A diagram that depicts evolutionary relationships within groups of taxa. These illustrations are accurate predictive device in modern genetics. They are usually depicted in either tree or ladder form. Synapomorphies then create evidence for historical relationships and their associated hierarchical structure. Evolutionarily, a synapomorphy is the marker for the most recent common ancestor of the monophyletic group consisting of a set of taxa in a cladogram. Peer Review: I reviewed Laurel Merbaum and Lily Elmore's articles