Question

In plant systematics, which one of the following species belongs to the branch at the very base of the angiosperm phylogenetic tree?

• A. Amborella trichopoda
• B. Illicium floridanum
• C. Magnolia grandiflora
• D. Nymphaea stellata

Hint:

Amborella trichopoda is the most primitive angiosperm species, representing the earliest divergence in the angiosperm lineage.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding Angiosperm Phylogeny.
The angiosperms (flowering plants) are divided into various groups based on their evolutionary relationships. The species that lie at the base of the phylogenetic tree are considered the most primitive.
Step 2: Analyzing the Species.
- Amborella trichopoda: This species is known to be the most basal or primitive angiosperm species. It lacks certain features that evolved later in more derived angiosperms.
- Illicium floridanum: A member of the magnoliids, but not the most basal.
- Magnolia grandiflora: Also a magnoliid, but a more derived group.
- Nymphaea stellata: Part of the water lilies, which are more advanced than Amborella.
Step 3: Conclusion.
The species at the very base of the angiosperm tree is (A) Amborella trichopoda.