Apical ancestor

In anthropology, an apical ancestor is a common ancestor from whom a lineage or clan may trace its descent. The word apical is used because this ancestor is at the apex of the genealogy. In the case of clans, this may be an assumed or fictional ancestor chosen for unification purposes. If the apical ancestor of a clan is nonhuman, it is a totem. See also: kinship and descent Category:Kinship and descent