LT 11.1 Interpreting Cladograms and Evolutionary Relationships

In this assignment, you will analyze a cladogram and a character table to answer questions about evolutionary relationships among different animals. Use the provided diagram and table to support your answers. Be sure to read each question carefully and refer to the diagram as needed.

Group 1

Use the cladogram and character table to answer the following questions about evolutionary relationships.

The Character table (a) provides information on which characteristics (traits) that each taxa (category) of animal has.


The cladogram (b) shows the evolutionary relationships between the six taxa (categories) of animals.

Question 1a

Multiple choice

Which of the following animals is most closely related to the leopard according to the cladogram?

  • Turtle

  • Salamander

  • Tuna

  • Lamprey

Question 1b

Multiple choice

Which characteristic is shared by all animals except the lancelet (outgroup)?

  • Vertebral column (backbone)

  • Jaws

  • Four walking legs

  • Amniotic (shelled) egg

Question 1c

Short answer

Based on the cladogram, which characteristic evolved just before the appearance of the salamander?

Question 1d

Short answer

Explain why the lamprey is less closely related to the turtle than the salamander is, according to the cladogram.

Question 1e

Short answer

If a new animal is discovered that has jaws and four walking legs, but does not have an amniotic egg or hair, where would it most likely fit on this cladogram? Briefly explain your reasoning.

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