According to the tree below, “monkeys” should most likely be considered what type of group?

• A. Monophyletic.
• B. Polyphyletic.
• C. Paraphyletic.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Examine the phylogenetic tree provided. Notice that it includes several groups: Lemurs, lorises, & bush babies; Tarsiers; New World monkeys; Old World monkeys; and Apes.
2. Understand the definitions of the terms: Monophyletic, Polyphyletic, and Paraphyletic. A monophyletic group includes an ancestor and all of its descendants. A polyphyletic group includes species with different ancestors. A paraphyletic group includes an ancestor and some, but not all, of its descendants.
3. Identify the group labeled 'monkeys' in the tree. This group includes New World monkeys and Old World monkeys.
4. Observe that the 'monkeys' group does not include Apes, even though Apes share a common ancestor with Old World monkeys. This indicates that the 'monkeys' group does not include all descendants of their most recent common ancestor.
5. Conclude that because the 'monkeys' group excludes Apes, it is a paraphyletic group, as it includes an ancestor and some, but not all, of its descendants.