Systematics

Definition

Systematics is the scientific study of organizing and classifying organisms based on their evolutionary relationships. It aims to reconstruct the evolutionary history of life on Earth.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Systematics involves taxonomy, phylogenetics, and evolutionary biology.
2. Molecular data, such as DNA sequences, are crucial for modern systematics.
3. Cladistics is a common method used in systematics to create phylogenetic trees.
4. The goal of systematics is to reflect evolutionary relationships in classifications.
5. Systematics helps in understanding biodiversity and the origins of different species.

Review Questions

• What is the main goal of systematics?
• How does molecular data contribute to systematics?
• What method is commonly used in systematics to create phylogenetic trees?

Related terms

Taxonomy: The science of naming, describing, and classifying organisms.

Phylogenetics: The study of evolutionary relationships among biological entities.

Cladistics: A method within systematics that classifies organisms based on shared derived characteristics.