Phylogenetic analysis

 

Tested Studies in Laboratory Teaching, 2006, Volume 27

Robert J. Kosinski

Abstract

This exercise introduces students to analysis of evolutionary relationships both by analysis of molecular similarity and by cladistic techniques. The molecular analysis uses both paper-and-pencil and bioinformatics comparison of the amino acid sequence of the hemoglobin beta chain of eight vertebrates. The cladistic exercises introduce students to cladistic principles, and then allow students to solve hypothetical problems both with and without homoplasy. Students then test their cladistic ability by analyzing published data on the flightless birds. Finally, students solve an entertaining problem using "organisms" made out of nuts and bolts.

Keywords:  taxonomy, bioinformatics, phylogenetic analysis, cladistics, clade

Virginia Tech (2005)