Characterization of a branch of the phylogenetic tree
We use a combination of analytic models and computer simulations to gain insight into the dynamics of evolution. Our results suggest that certain interesting phenomena should eventually emerge from the fossil record. For example, there should be a ''tortoise and hare effect'': Those genera with the smallest species death rate are likely to survive much longer than genera with large species birth and death rates. A complete characterization of the behavior of a branch of the phylogenetic tree corresponding to a genus and accurate mathematical representations of the various stages are obtained. We apply our results to address certain controversial issues that have arisen in paleontology such as the importance of punctuated equilibrium and whether unique Cambrian phyla have survived to the present.
- Research Organization:
- Lawrence Berkeley National Lab. (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Director. Office of Science. High Energy Physics; AARON DIAMOND F OUNDATION; National Science Foundation Grants PHY-9420615 and PHY-0098840 (US)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC03-76SF00098
- OSTI ID:
- 816770
- Report Number(s):
- LBNL-47547; JTBIAP; R&D Project: PTHOPS; TRN: US0305136
- Journal Information:
- Journal of Theoretical Biology, Vol. 220; Other Information: Journal Publication Date: 2003; PBD: 11 Apr 2003; ISSN 0022-5193
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
The complete mitochondrial genome of the enigmatic bigheadedturtle (Platysternon): description of unusual genomic features and thereconciliation of phylogenetic hypotheses based on mitochondrial andnuclear DNA
The complete mitochondrial genome of the enigmatic bigheaded turtle (Platysternon): description of unusual genomic features and the reconciliation of phylogenetic hypotheses based on mitochondrial and nuclear DNA