What does a cladogram illustrate in the context of speciation?

A cladogram is a visual representation that illustrates the evolutionary relationships among various species. It serves as a branching diagram showing how species diverge from common ancestors over time, highlighting the points at which different species have split and evolved independently. This tool is essential in understanding phylogenetics, as it reveals the hierarchical structure of evolutionary history, demonstrating the patterns of descent and the degree of relatedness between species.

In the context of speciation, a cladogram can help elucidate how species have adapted to different environments or ecological niches over time, leading to the emergence of new species. By analyzing the branches and nodes on the cladogram, researchers can infer the evolutionary pathways and the characteristics that may have been significant during the speciation processes. Thus, the correct answer focuses on the vital role of cladograms in depicting these evolutionary connections.