Understanding Phylogenetic Trees as Hypothesis Testing Tools with HHMI's™ Lizard Evolution Virtual Lab

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2018, Volume 39

Tara Jo Holmberg

Abstract

The Lizard Evolution Virtual Lab from HHMI-BioInteractive engages students in the collection and analysis of authentic data on Anolis lizards to investigate adaptation, convergent evolution, reproductive isolation, and speciation. The lab is organized in four modules, providing flexibility and scalability for use in a variety of courses and settings. This workshop will introduce the first two modules. In the first module, students make observations and collect and interpret data that suggest that different lizard species display adaptations that fit their ecological niches. In the second module, students use phylogenetic trees to test hypotheses about the evolutionary history of these species and their adaptations. Participants of this workshop will experience the lab as a student, collecting data and answering questions through the virtual lab platform, while also gathering tips and suggested modifications from an educator who has used this virtual lab in her course. Connections to Vision and Change will be integrated into the presentation.

Keywords:  HHMI Biointeractive

University of Wisconsin, Madison (2017)