Based on the tree below, which statement is not correct? <IMAGE>
a. Goats and humans form a sister group
b. Salamanders are a sister group to the group containing lizards, goats, and humans
c. Salamanders are as closely related to goats as to humans
d. Lizards are more closely related to salamanders than to humans

Verified step by step guidance

1. Examine the phylogenetic tree provided in the problem. A phylogenetic tree shows evolutionary relationships between species, where closer branches indicate closer relationships.
2. Identify the sister groups in the tree. Sister groups are two lineages that share a common ancestor not shared by any other lineage. For example, if goats and humans share a direct common ancestor, they form a sister group.
3. Analyze the placement of salamanders in the tree relative to lizards, goats, and humans. Determine if salamanders are equally related to goats and humans or if they are closer to one group than the other.
4. Compare the evolutionary distance between lizards and salamanders versus lizards and humans. This can be done by observing the branching points and common ancestors in the tree.
5. Evaluate each statement (a, b, c, d) based on the relationships depicted in the tree. Identify which statement contradicts the evolutionary relationships shown in the tree.

Key Concepts

Phylogenetic Trees

Phylogenetic trees are diagrams that represent evolutionary relationships among various biological species based on their genetic or physical characteristics. Each branch point, or node, indicates a common ancestor, while the tips of the branches represent the current species. Understanding how to read these trees is crucial for determining relationships and identifying sister groups.

Sister Groups

Sister groups are pairs of taxa that are each other's closest relatives, sharing a more recent common ancestor than with any other group. In a phylogenetic tree, sister groups diverge from the same node. Recognizing sister groups helps clarify evolutionary relationships and can influence interpretations of traits and behaviors among species.

Cladistics

Cladistics is a method of classifying species based on common ancestry and the branching patterns of evolution. It focuses on shared derived characteristics (synapomorphies) to establish relationships. This approach is essential for evaluating statements about evolutionary proximity, as it provides a framework for understanding how different organisms are related through their evolutionary history.