Question

multiple choice 6.15 points
what is the purpose of including an out - group in a phylogenetic tree analysis (phylogenetic analysis)?
to present a control in case evolution has not occurred
an out - group should not be included in phylogenetic analysis
to present the most derived states of any taxa considered
to present a taxa with all ancestral states for informative characters/features

Explanation:

In phylogenetic tree analysis, an out - group is a taxon that is outside the group of interest. It is used to root the tree and to help determine which traits are ancestral and which are derived. It represents a taxon with all ancestral states for informative characters/features.

Answer:

To present a taxon with all ancestral states for informative characters/features