Phylogenetics: meaning, definitions and examples

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phylogenetics

[fʌɪloʊdʒəˈnetɪks ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

study of evolutionary relationships

Phylogenetics is the study of evolutionary relationships among groups of organisms, based on similarities and differences in their physical or genetic characteristics. It helps scientists understand the evolutionary history of species and how they are related to each other.

Synonyms

evolutionary relationships, phylogenetic analysis.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
phylogenetics	Use this term when discussing the scientific discipline focused on studying the evolutionary history and relationships among different biological species or entities. It is a general term that encompasses various methodologies and tools. Phylogenetics helps scientists understand the evolutionary history of different species. By using phylogenetics, researchers can trace the lineage of ancient organisms.
evolutionary relationships	This phrase is suitable when specifically talking about the links and connections between different species based on their evolutionary history. It is often used in a broader or more explanatory context. The evolutionary relationships between birds and reptiles are well-documented. Scientists study evolutionary relationships to uncover how different species are related.
phylogenetic analysis	This term should be used when referring to the specific process or methodology of analyzing evolutionary relationships, often through computational methods and statistical tools. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted to determine the ancestry of the newly discovered organism. By performing phylogenetic analysis, researchers can create detailed evolutionary trees.

Word

Description / Examples

phylogenetics

Use this term when discussing the scientific discipline focused on studying the evolutionary history and relationships among different biological species or entities. It is a general term that encompasses various methodologies and tools.

Phylogenetics helps scientists understand the evolutionary history of different species.
By using phylogenetics, researchers can trace the lineage of ancient organisms.

evolutionary relationships

This phrase is suitable when specifically talking about the links and connections between different species based on their evolutionary history. It is often used in a broader or more explanatory context.

The evolutionary relationships between birds and reptiles are well-documented.
Scientists study evolutionary relationships to uncover how different species are related.

phylogenetic analysis

This term should be used when referring to the specific process or methodology of analyzing evolutionary relationships, often through computational methods and statistical tools.

Phylogenetic analysis was conducted to determine the ancestry of the newly discovered organism.
By performing phylogenetic analysis, researchers can create detailed evolutionary trees.

Examples of usage

Phylogenetics is used to reconstruct the tree of life and determine the evolutionary history of species.
Scientists use phylogenetics to study the genetic relationships between different species.
Phylogenetics plays a crucial role in understanding biodiversity and the origins of different organisms.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

'Phylogenetics' comes from the Greek words 'phylon' meaning tribe and 'genesis' meaning origin.
The term was first used in the early 20th century to describe relationships among organisms based on their evolutionary history.
It emphasizes the 'trees' of life that represent the connections of species over time.

Science

Phylogenetic analysis helps scientists trace the origins of diseases, leading to better treatments and vaccines.
Molecular data, like DNA sequences, has revolutionized phylogenetics, allowing for more accurate relationships between species.
The method compares genetic similarities and differences, indicating how closely related two species may be.

Technology

Computational tools are now widely used to analyze genetic data, making phylogenetics faster and more reliable.
Software programs can create phylogenetic trees that visualize evolutionary relationships based on extensive genetic data.
High-throughput sequencing technologies have opened new doors for large-scale phylogenetic studies.

Cultural Impact

Understanding evolutionary relationships aids in conservation efforts by pinpointing biodiversity hotspots.
Phylogenetics has influenced debates in fields like anthropology, helping to track human evolution and migration.
The popularization of the 'Tree of Life' concept in education showcases the interconnectedness of all living organisms.

Literature

Books and articles on phylogenetics often spark interest in the broader implications of evolutionary biology.
The topic features prominently in works exploring the history of life and the complexities of biodiversity.
Dramatic shifts in understanding species relationships have made phylogenetics a dynamic and evolving subject in academic literature.

Translations

Translations of the word "phylogenetics" in other languages:

🇵🇹 filogenética

🇮🇳 वृक्षविकासिकी

🇩🇪 Phylogenetik

🇮🇩 filogenetika

🇺🇦 філогенетика

🇵🇱 filogenetyka

🇯🇵 系統学 (けいとうがく)

🇫🇷 phylogénétique

🇪🇸 filogenética

🇹🇷 filogenetik

🇰🇷 계통학 (gyetonghak)

🇸🇦 علم الوراثة العرقية

🇨🇿 fylogenetika

🇸🇰 fylogenétika

🇨🇳 系统发生学 (xìtǒng fāshēng xué)

🇸🇮 filogenetika

🇮🇸 skyldleikarannsóknir

🇰🇿 филогенетика

🇬🇪 ფილოგენეტიკა

🇦🇿 filogenetika

🇲🇽 filogenética