What is a synapomorphy?
Q: What is a synapomorphy?
A: A synapomorphy is a common character present in two or more species by common descent.
Q: What is the meaning of synapomorphy in cladistics?
A: In cladistics, a synapomorphy is a type of homologous character or homology.
Q: What is the precise definition of synapomorphy?
A: A synapomorphy is a trait shared by two or more taxa and their most recent common ancestor, whose own ancestor in turn does not possess the trait.
Q: Is a synapomorphy just an ancestral trait?
A: No, a synapomorphy is not just an ancestral trait but a recently evolved distinguishing trait.
Q: What is the importance of a synapomorphy?
A: A synapomorphy helps to distinguish between two trees of descent which would otherwise be equally likely.
Q: What is the relationship between a synapomorphy and a homologous character?
A: A synapomorphy is a type of homologous character or homology.
Q: Does a synapomorphy represent a unique trait in each species?
A: No, a synapomorphy may be a trait shared by two or more species, as it indicates common descent.
