Basal (phylogenetics)
WordNet
adjective
(1) Especially of leaves; located at the base of a plant or stem; especially arising directly from the root or rootstock or a root-like stem
"Basal placentation"
"Radical leaves"
(2) Of primary importance
(3) Serving as or forming a base
"The painter applied a base coat followed by two finishing coats"
WiktionaryText
Adjective
- Relating to, or forming, the base, or point of origin.
- In a phylogenetic tree, being a group, or member of a group, which diverged early.
- Hittite is a basal Indo-European language.
- A magnolia is a basal angiosperm.