Biology

The correct answer is: C. Lesser pandas are more genetically similar to raccoons than they are to giant pandas.

A.On the phylogenetic tree, the lesser panda branches off before the giant panda branches off from the lineage that also includes the raccoon. Lesser pandas and raccoons share a more recent common ancestor than lesser pandas and giant pandas. So, lesser pandas are more genetically similar to raccoons than to giant pandas, and this option is false.

B.Brown bears and sun bears share a very recent common ancestor and are closely related. The branch for the giant panda diverges earlier from the bear - related branches. So, brown bears are more genetically similar to sun bears than to giant pandas, and this option is false.

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