Question

Explain the term (a) Phylogeny and (b) Ontogeny.

Answer 1

(a) Phylogeny:

1. The evolutionary history of a species or group is known as phylogeny.
2. All of the creatures appear to be genetically linked, based on morphological and biochemical data.
3. Phylogeny provides insight into the evolution of genes, genomes, and species.
4. It can be used for both basic and numerical purposes.

(b) Ontogeny:

1. The development of an individual organism is referred to as ontogeny.
2. It starts with fertilization and continues through all the developmental stages up to and including birth.