Question

The phylogenetic tree following the principles of Occam's razor is:

• A. Maximum likelihood tree
• B. Ultrametric tree
• C. Additive tree
• D. Maximum parsimony tree

Hint:

Maximum parsimony uses the principle of Occam's razor, selecting the simplest tree with the fewest evolutionary changes.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding Occam's Razor in Phylogenetics 
Occam's razor suggests that the simplest explanation, with the least number of assumptions, should be preferred. In phylogenetics, this principle is applied by choosing the tree with the least number of evolutionary changes. 
Step 2: Evaluating the Options 
- Maximum likelihood tree: Involves complex models to maximize the likelihood of the tree given the data, but does not directly follow Occam’s razor. 
- Ultrametric tree: A tree where all tips are equidistant from the root; does not directly follow Occam’s razor. 
- Additive tree: A tree with distances that are additive, not necessarily reflecting the simplest tree. 
- Maximum parsimony tree: Correct, this method selects the tree with the fewest evolutionary changes, directly following Occam’s razor. 
Step 3: Conclusion 
The maximum parsimony tree is the one that follows the principles of Occam's razor in phylogenetics.