Common ancestor — Science definition
A population from which two lineages diverged; it is represented by a node on a tree and is not any living species.
Where it is taught
- Common Ancestry, Evidence & Branching Trees — Evolution, Evidence & Life History, Life Science & Scientific Inquiry, Grade 7
In use
Structures related in this way are homologous structures, and they are among the strongest evidence for a common ancestor.
Common Ancestry, Evidence & Branching Trees