MISSION 3 — Where the Tiny Wild Things Are
Even with a microscope, most people can’t tell the difference between an archaea and a bacterium. Crack open their DNA, however, and the differences become pretty obvious—and you don’t even need a microscope, just a computer to crunch the data. We’ve kept things pretty simple in this level, though, so you’ll only need your eyes and some brainpower. There is no outgroup on this level, so pay extra attention to the comparison data provided.
Play "Where the tiny wild things are" and answer questions 11–14 after you've completed the level.
11. Click on the button below to answer question 11. Remember to refer to your completed tree and the species comparison tab if you are not sure of your answer.
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12. A. vinosum is most closely related to which organism(s)?
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13. Can you tell from this tree whether a C at position 15 evolved before or after a T at position 15? Explain your answer.
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14. The pop-up question at the end of this level asks why examining DNA is better than considering physical traits. However, remember that it’s not always possible. When do you have to rely on physical traits instead of DNA?
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Congratulations for completing Mission 3! Click here to begin Mission 4.