Select the species whose origins would most likely need to be determined by a molecular clock.

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The question asks which species would most likely require a molecular clock to determine its origins.
First, note that the provided data lists only one potential option: slug, with an empty set of answer choices. Since no alternative species are presented to compare, we cannot evaluate other possibilities or contrast their suitability for molecular clock analysis.
In general, molecular clocks are particularly useful for estimating divergence times when the fossil record is sparse, fragmentary, or highly ambiguous, or when traditional fossil-based dating is impractical. They are commonly applied to organisms with poor or limited fossil preservation, rapid or variable mutation rates, or deep evolutionary timescales where fossils are absent.
Slugs (gastropods) often have soft-bodied, poor fossilization potential, leading to a weak or incomplete fossil record. This makes it difficult to confidently date their origins using morphology alone or fossil-based methods. Consequently, molecular clock approaches, which rely on genetic sequence differences accumulating over time, would be a logical tool to estimate their evolutionary origins and divergence times.
If there were other species listed, we would compare how well they preserve fossils, how well their lineage is represented in the geological record, and the expected rate of molecular evolution. Species with robust fossil records or well-calibrated datasets might require less reliance on molecular clocks for origin dating, whereas those with scant fossil evidence would rely more on molecular data.
In summary, given the common reasoning about data availability and dating challenges, a slug-like organism with a poor fossil record would be a prime candidate for molecular clock-based origin dating, explaining why this option is plausible in this context.

BIOL 1001 (090-095) Unit 2.2 Learning Quiz

Select the species whose origins would most likely need to be determined by a molecular clock.

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