To determine which species is most closely related to Species Z based on genetic differences, let's summarize the given information and find the species with the smallest number of genetic differences. Here are the genetic differences between Species Z and the other species:
- Species A has 12 genetic differences.
- Species B has 3 genetic differences.
- Species C has 14 genetic differences.
- Species D has 28 genetic differences.
The closest related species will be the one with the fewest number of genetic differences. Let's list out the differences for clarity:
- Differences for Species A: 12
- Differences for Species B: 3
- Differences for Species C: 14
- Differences for Species D: 28
Now, we compare these numbers to find the smallest one:
- 12 (Species A)
- 3 (Species B) --> This is the smallest.
- 14 (Species C)
- 28 (Species D)
Since 3 is the smallest number of genetic differences, Species B is the most closely related species to Species Z.
Therefore, the species most closely related to Species Z is Species B.