Bryophytes are not early diverging land plants

Area of Science:

• Evolutionary Biology
• Systematics
• Plant Science

Background:

• Phylogenetic trees are fundamental in biology, but interpretation challenges persist, especially outside evolutionary biology.
• Common language in plant systematics can lead to misinterpretations of evolutionary processes.
• Terms evoke a linear progression rather than branching evolution.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and critique misleading terminology in phylogenetic interpretation.
• To demonstrate how such language distorts evolutionary literacy and interdisciplinary communication.
• To advocate for the adoption of "tree thinking" as a clearer framework.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of common terminology used in plant systematics publications.
• Case study focusing on the bryophyte-angiosperm relationship.
• Conceptual framework development for "tree thinking".

Main Results:

• Certain intuitive terms in phylogenetics can inadvertently misrepresent evolution as a linear progression.
• This linguistic tendency can bias research and hinder clear communication.
• The bryophyte-angiosperm relationship exemplifies these interpretative challenges.

Conclusions:

• Adopting "tree thinking" offers a more accurate and accessible way to understand phylogenetic trees.
• Clearer communication of evolutionary concepts is crucial for scientific progress and public engagement.
• Standardizing phylogenetic interpretation promotes better interdisciplinary collaboration.