The phrase "ancestral state" refers to the original or primitive condition of something. It is the version or form of that thing that existed in the past or from which it evolved. Full definition
Using this system, we demonstrate an application of ancestral state reconstruction to assess geographic range dynamics in a lineage lacking a fossil record. (amnat.org)
This symposium intends to gather researchers interested in various aspects of floral evolution: from deciphering the genes and gene networks involved in specific trait evolution to reconstructing ancestral states of floral traits. (eiseverywhere.com)
Alu - insertion polymorphisms are a boon for the study of human population genetics and primate comparative genomics because they are neutral genetic markers of identical descent with known ancestral states. (nature.com)