Shared derived trait — Science definition
A characteristic that first evolved in a common ancestor and is shared by all of its descendants, used to define groups (clades) on a cladogram — such as a backbone or hair.
Where it is taught
- Classification & Biodiversity — Evolution, Ancestry & Biodiversity, Life Science: Biology, Grade 10
Questions using shared derived trait
Problem 1
Explain what a shared derived trait is and how it helps you group organisms on a cladogram.
Answer and explanation
A shared derived trait is a feature that first evolved in a common ancestor and was inherited by all of its descendants. On a cladogram, all the organisms that share that trait form a group (clade) branching from that ancestor, so shared derived traits let you identify which organisms are more closely related.