Scientists use DNA to group living things into three main categories: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya. Here’s how they do it:
Getting DNA: First, scientists take DNA from different organisms. They use a special method called PCR (which stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction) to make many copies of certain genes. This lets them read the genetic code.
Looking for Similarities: Next, researchers compare the DNA from different organisms. By checking what’s the same and what’s different in these DNA sequences, they can see how closely related different species are.
Drawing Relationships: Scientists make diagrams called phylogenetic trees. These trees show how organisms are connected through evolution. The more similar the DNA, the closer they are on the tree.
Grouping Organisms: Finally, using the DNA information, scientists place organisms into the right categories. For example, bacteria and archaea might look alike under a microscope, but their DNA tells us they are quite different!
This DNA-based method of grouping helps us understand the variety of life on Earth better than ever before.
Scientists use DNA to group living things into three main categories: Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya. Here’s how they do it:
Getting DNA: First, scientists take DNA from different organisms. They use a special method called PCR (which stands for Polymerase Chain Reaction) to make many copies of certain genes. This lets them read the genetic code.
Looking for Similarities: Next, researchers compare the DNA from different organisms. By checking what’s the same and what’s different in these DNA sequences, they can see how closely related different species are.
Drawing Relationships: Scientists make diagrams called phylogenetic trees. These trees show how organisms are connected through evolution. The more similar the DNA, the closer they are on the tree.
Grouping Organisms: Finally, using the DNA information, scientists place organisms into the right categories. For example, bacteria and archaea might look alike under a microscope, but their DNA tells us they are quite different!
This DNA-based method of grouping helps us understand the variety of life on Earth better than ever before.