Evolutionary history of a group of organisms is called `:`

Options

A. Paleontology
B. Ontogeny
C. Phylogeny
D. Ancestry

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks for the term that describes the evolutionary history of a group of organisms.

2. **Analyzing the Options**: We have four options to consider:
- A) Paleontology
- B) Ontogeny
- C) Phylogeny
- D) Ancestry

3. **Evaluating Option A - Paleontology**:
- Paleontology is the study of fossils. While fossils can provide information about evolutionary history, paleontology itself does not specifically refer to the evolutionary history of a group of organisms. Therefore, this option is not correct.

4. **Evaluating Option B - Ontogeny**:
- Ontogeny refers to the development of an individual organism from the fertilized egg (zygote) to its adult form. This term focuses on the life cycle of an individual organism rather than the evolutionary history of a group. Hence, this option is also incorrect.

5. **Evaluating Option C - Phylogeny**:
- Phylogeny specifically refers to the evolutionary history and relationships among a group of organisms. It encompasses the study of how species have evolved and diverged over time. This makes it the most appropriate choice for the question.

6. **Evaluating Option D - Ancestry**:
- Ancestry refers to the lineage or descent of individuals or groups. While it relates to history, it does not specifically denote the evolutionary history of a group of organisms. Thus, this option is not correct.

7. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the correct answer is **C) Phylogeny**, as it is the term that specifically describes the evolutionary history of a group of organisms.

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