BIOL 3046: Molecular evolution
Key terms:
Phylogenetics
Monophyletic group
Sister taxa
Derived state
Clock-like evolution
Biogeography
Review material
Introduction to phylogenetics (Phylo_T1)
Phylogenetic tree
Node
Character polarity
Analogy
Comparative method
Clade
Root
Ancestral state
Homology
Phylogenetic systematics
Review questions:
1. Although both Darwin and Wallace used the simile of a “tree”, why
is it that the discipline of phylogenetics has matured only in the last
decade?
2. Why are phylogenies critical to distinguishing between analogy and
homology? What is the role of rooted verses unrooted trees in
distinguishing between such cases?
3. List relationships, other than among species, which can be
represented by a phylogeny.
4. Why are phylogenies so critical to the modern discipline of
comparative biology? What sort of mistakes can be made if one
does not use a phylogenetic framework?
5. List and explain the application of phylogenetics to several different
sub-disciplines of biology.
6. Define monophyletic and non-monophyletic. Explain why such
ideas are critical to the modern discipline of phylogenetic
systematics.
7. Describe four practical applications of phylogenetics that are
relevant to the activities of conservation biologists.
8. What was the notion of “progress” in systematics? What do you
think about the applicability of this notion to systematics, and to
evolution in general?