I reconstructed the phylogenetic tree using the Neighbor-Joining algorithm. The results showed that even though the species are the same (C.maxima), they are in different nodes or branches. What is the cause of this?
Please advise
Thank you
Two or more species with 100% of the same DNA sequences would be considered as the same species because species are defined based on their genetic similarity. Therefore, if two or more species have 100% identical DNA sequences, they would be placed in the same branch of a phylogenetic tree.
However, it is extremely unlikely for two or more species to have 100% identical DNA sequences, even within the same species. Even small differences in DNA sequences can indicate genetic divergence and contribute to differences in physical traits, behaviors, and adaptations.
Additionally, phylogenetic trees are not constructed based solely on DNA sequence data. Other factors, such as morphology, behavior, and geographic distribution, are also considered when constructing phylogenetic trees. These other factors can provide evidence for genetic differentiation, even if the DNA sequences are identical. For example, two species with identical DNA sequences but different physical features may be placed in different branches of a phylogenetic tree based on their morphological differences
Ali Raza
Thank you for the answer
I did sequencing using the matK gene. The result is that both samples have 1530 bp 100% similar sequence. Then, I did BLAST and the result has 100% similarity with C. maxima Mato Buntan.
When the phylogenetic tree was constructed, the three samples were not in the same branch. What is the cause of this?
Please advise.
Thank you
It is possible for sister taxa to have the same DNA sequence, but it is rare. Sister taxa are defined as two taxa that share a recent common ancestor that is not shared by any other taxa. This means that they are expected to have some similarities in their DNA sequences due to their shared ancestry, but also some differences due to the accumulation of mutations over time.
However, there are some circumstances in which sister taxa may have identical or nearly identical DNA sequences. One possibility is if they have recently diverged, and there has not been enough time for mutations to accumulate in their DNA. Another possibility is if they have undergone convergent evolution, where two distantly related lineages evolve similar traits independently. This could result in the same or very similar DNA sequences evolving in two different lineages.
Overall, while it is rare for sister taxa to have identical DNA sequences, it is possible under certain
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