Evolutionary Tree - GCSE Biology Definition

Reviewed by: Lára Marie McIvor

Published

An evolutionary tree, also known as a phylogenetic tree, is a diagram that shows how different species are related through evolution. It looks like a tree with branches, where each branch point represents a common ancestor shared by the species that come from that branch. The tips of the branches represent the species we see today or extinct species that once lived. By studying evolutionary trees, scientists can understand how species have changed over time and how closely related different species are to each other. This helps us learn more about the history of life on Earth.

Examiner-written GCSE Biology revision resources that improve your grades 2x

  • Written by expert teachers and examiners
  • Aligned to exam specifications
  • Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t
GCSE Biology revision resources

Share this article

Lára Marie McIvor

Reviewer: Lára Marie McIvor

Expertise: Biology, Psychology & Sociology Subject Lead

Lára graduated from Oxford University in Biological Sciences and has now been a science tutor working in the UK for several years. Lára has a particular interest in the area of infectious disease and epidemiology, and enjoys creating original educational materials that develop confidence and facilitate learning.

The examiner written revision resources that improve your grades 2x.

Join now