The evolutionary history of a species is called its phylogeny. Phylogeny refers to the branching patterns of evolution based on shared ancestors and the relationships between different species over time.
Understanding a species’ phylogeny helps scientists trace its lineage and how it has adapted through various environmental pressures and changes. This is often depicted in a phylogenetic tree, which illustrates the evolutionary pathways and connections among various organisms. Such visual representations can show how closely related different species are and highlight common ancestors, providing insights into biodiversity and the mechanisms of evolution.