What is the name of the diagram that shows evolutionary relationships among organisms in cladistics?

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A cladogram is a specific type of diagram used in cladistics to illustrate the evolutionary relationships among various organisms. It depicts the branching patterns of evolution based on shared characteristics, allowing scientists to visualize how different species are related through common ancestry.

Cladograms focus on the relationships defined by branching points known as nodes, which represent the common ancestors of the organisms. Each branch reflects the divergence of species over time, emphasizing their evolutionary paths. This makes cladograms particularly valuable for understanding the evolutionary context of biodiversity.

In comparison, while a phylogenetic tree is similar and also illustrates genetic relationships, it can provide more detail, such as the timing of divergences and lengths of branches, that might not be present in a basic cladogram. An ecosystem map refers to the interactions within an ecosystem, while a taxonomic key is a tool used for identifying organisms based on their characteristics and does not illustrate evolutionary relationships directly. Thus, the name "cladogram" is most appropriate for depicting evolutionary relationships in the context of cladistics.

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