cladistic
Ancestry-based taxonomic method
Cladistic describes a method of classifying organisms based on shared evolutionary ancestry rather than physical similarity.
In cladistic analysis, species are grouped by features inherited from a common ancestor, producing branching diagrams called cladograms.
The cladistic approach revolutionized how biologists understand relationships between species.
The method has spread beyond biology to classify languages, manuscripts, and other things that evolve through descent.
Origin point of descendants
- descentDownward slope or lineage
- divergenceSeparation from common origin
- speciationFormation of distinct species
- lineageDescent from progenitors
ancestry · tree of life · branching pattern · genealogy · ancestral lineage · root
Nearest branch in phylogeny
Excessive frugality with resources
- branchingSplitting into separate directions
- bifurcationDivision into two branches
- nodeConnection point in networks
- dichotomousDivided into two parts
Structural similarity through descent
- convergenceProcess of approaching sameness
- reversalComplete change of direction
- traitDistinguishing personal quality
common ancestor
Origin point of descendants
- descentDownward slope or lineage
- divergenceSeparation from common origin
- speciationFormation of distinct species
lineage · ancestry · tree of life · branching pattern · genealogy · ancestral lineage · root
sister group
Nearest branch in phylogeny
parsimony
Excessive frugality with resources
- branchingSplitting into separate directions
- bifurcationDivision into two branches
- nodeConnection point in networks
homology
Structural similarity through descent
- convergenceProcess of approaching sameness
- reversalComplete change of direction
- traitDistinguishing personal quality