Question

What is a chemical apomorphy of the Alliaceae?

   What is a chemical apomorphy of the Alliaceae?

Plant Systematics

Plant Systematics

Michael G. Simpson 2nd Edition

Chapter 7, Problem 32

Instant Answer

Solved by Expert Himanshu Garg

06/01/2020

Step 1

To identify a chemical apomorphy of this family, we need to look for a unique chemical compound or characteristic that is specific to this group of plants. One chemical apomorphy of the Alliaceae family is the presence of organosulfur compounds. These compounds Show more…

Show all steps

lock

Thanks for your feedback!

What is a chemical apomorphy of the Alliaceae?

Play audio

Feedback

Powered by NumerAI

Himanshu Garg and 93 other educators are ready to help you.

Ask a new question

Labs

Want to see this concept in action?

NEW

Explore this concept interactively to see how it behaves as you change inputs.

View Labs

Key Concepts

Apomorphy

An apomorphy is a derived trait that distinguishes a particular group from its ancestral condition. In evolutionary biology, identifying such traits helps in determining phylogenetic relationships and in classifying organisms into clades based on unique, shared characteristics.

Chemical Apomorphy

A chemical apomorphy refers to a distinct biochemical trait that has evolved in a lineage, setting it apart from its ancestors. These traits are particularly useful in systematics and taxonomy, as they offer clear chemical markers to delineate groups.

Organosulfur Compounds

One of the hallmarks of the Alliaceae family is the production of unique organosulfur compounds, specifically alk(en)yl cysteine sulfoxides. These compounds not only impart the characteristic pungent odor and flavor to members of this group but also serve as a key chemical autapomorphy for the family, marking its evolutionary divergence from related groups.

Recommended Videos

Transcript

Ace is your personal tutor. It breaks down any question with clear steps so you can learn.

Start Using Ace

Continue solving this problem

Create a free account to:

View full step-by-step solution
Ask follow-up questions with Ace AI
Save progress and study later