Species that are not closely related and that do not share many anatomical similarities can still be placed together on the same phylogenetic tree by comparing their "homologous genes that are highly conserved".
Explanation:
A phylogenetic trees refer a representation describing evolutionary connections between species, these trees are not conclusive evidence nor theories. In a phylogenetic tree the sequence of splitting illustrates how species or other groups developed from a set of common ancestors.
A gene transmitted by a common ancestor in two species is considered to be "a homologous gene". Although it may be equivalent in series, related sequences aren't homologous necessarily. Orthologous are homologous genes, where a gene detracts after an occurrence of speciation, but preserves the gene and its crucial role.
