​Which one of the following Newick trees represents the correct relationship between apes?

Correct option is B

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Explanation:

To determine the correct phylogenetic relationship among apes, we need to consider evolutionary lineage based on genetic and morphological evidence. The correct evolutionary tree should follow the established Great Ape phylogeny:

1. Humans and chimpanzees share the most recent common ancestor.
2. Gorillas are the next closest relatives.
3. Orangutans diverged earlier than gorillas, chimpanzees, and humans.
4. Gibbons are the most distantly related, forming an outgroup to all great apes.

Thus, the correct hierarchical relationship is:

(((Humans,Chimpanzees),Gorillas),Orangutan),Gibbons

This matches Option 2, making it the correct answer.

Information Booster:

• Gibbons (Family: Hylobatidae): The most distantly related to great apes, forming an outgroup.
• Orangutans (Genus: Pongo): The first to diverge from the lineage leading to gorillas, chimps, and humans.
• Gorillas (Genus: Gorilla): Share a common ancestor with humans and chimpanzees but diverged earlier than them.
• Chimpanzees & Humans (Genus: Pan & Homo): The closest relatives, sharing about 98-99% of their DNA.