Final answer:
Gene sequences (D) can be analyzed to estimate divergence times between taxa because they provide a molecular clock. By comparing mutations in these sequences, scientists can infer how long ago two species diverged from their common ancestor. Phylogenetic trees and cladograms utilize these sequences to map out evolutionary relationships.
Step-by-step explanation:
The type of trait that can also be analyzed to estimate the divergence times between taxa is D. gene sequences. Unlike structural, developmental, or behavioral traits, gene sequences provide a molecular clock due to their mutation rates, which can be used to estimate the time of divergence.
When constructing a phylogenetic tree, scientists seek homologous traits, which are characteristics that organisms have inherited from a common ancestor. It is vital to differentiate between homologous and analogous traits, as homologous traits point to a common evolutionary path, whereas analogous traits might be similar but evolved independently.