Polyphyletic

Definition

Polyphyletic refers to a group of organisms that includes species with different immediate common ancestors. These groups are formed based on similarities that are not inherited from a common ancestor.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Polyphyletic groups can arise due to convergent evolution where unrelated species independently evolve similar traits.
2. Fungi classifications often involve polyphyletic groups due to their diverse evolutionary origins.
3. Polyphyletic contrasts with monophyletic, which includes all descendants of a common ancestor.
4. Recognizing polyphyletic groups is important for understanding the complexities and pitfalls in classifying organisms.
5. In fungi, some formerly recognized classes have been found to be polyphyletic and have been reclassified.

Review Questions

• What is the definition of a polyphyletic group?
• Why is identifying polyphyletic groups significant in biological classifications?
• How does a polyphyletic group differ from a monophyletic group?

Related terms

Monophyletic: A group that consists of an ancestor and all its descendants.

Paraphyletic: A group that includes an ancestor but not all its descendants.

Convergent Evolution:

The process where unrelated organisms develop similar traits independently.