What is one reason for comparing chromosomes from different species?

Comparing chromosomes from different species is crucial for understanding evolutionary relationships because it allows scientists to identify similarities and differences in genetic material that reflect shared ancestry and evolutionary divergence. By analyzing the structure, number, and arrangement of chromosomes, researchers can trace lineage, assess how species have adapted over time, and reconstruct phylogenetic trees that illustrate evolutionary paths. This comparative approach can reveal how traits have evolved in response to environmental pressures, leading to speciation and the development of new functions in different ecological niches. It is a fundamental aspect of evolutionary biology that provides insight into the history of life on Earth.