Which of the following has been used in the past to construct evolutionary trees?

• A. Geographical distribution alone
• B. Morphological characteristics
• C. Behavioral similarities only
• D. Molecular (DNA or protein) sequences

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that evolutionary trees, also known as phylogenetic trees, are diagrams that represent the evolutionary relationships among various species or other entities based on their shared characteristics.
2. Recognize that constructing evolutionary trees requires data that can provide evidence of shared ancestry. This data can come from various sources, including morphological characteristics (physical traits), molecular sequences (DNA or protein), and sometimes behavioral traits.
3. Morphological characteristics refer to the physical structures of organisms, such as bone structures, leaf shapes, or body plans. These have historically been used to infer evolutionary relationships before molecular data became widely available.
4. Molecular sequences, such as DNA or protein sequences, are now a primary tool for constructing evolutionary trees. These sequences allow scientists to compare genetic similarities and differences at a molecular level, providing more precise insights into evolutionary relationships.
5. Behavioral similarities and geographical distribution alone are not sufficient to construct accurate evolutionary trees. While they can provide context or additional support, they lack the detailed and quantifiable data needed to establish evolutionary relationships with high confidence.