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Protocol combining tree-based Maximum Parsimony and web-like Phylogenetic Networks analyses to investigate reticulate
Miguel Caparros1, Sandrine Prat1
1UMR 7194 "Histoire naturelle de l'Homme préhistorique" CNRS-MNHN-UPVD, Alliance Sorbonne Université, Musée de l'Homme, Palais de Chaillot, 17 place du Trocadéro, 75116 Paris, France.
STAR Protocols
|March 21, 2022
Summary
This study introduces a novel protocol combining Maximum Parsimony and Phylogenetic Networks to analyze hominin evolution. It clarifies evolutionary patterns and processes, investigating reticulate evolution in the genus Homo.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary biology
- Paleoanthropology
- Genetics
Background:
- Understanding hominin phylogeny is complex due to potential shared inheritance from multiple ancestors.
- Previous methods may not fully capture the intricate evolutionary processes shaping human lineage.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a protocol integrating Maximum Parsimony and Phylogenetic Networks for hominin evolutionary analysis.
- To investigate phylogenetic patterns and processes, specifically addressing reticulate evolution in the genus Homo.
- To aid in clarifying taxonomic definitions of hominin groups.
Main Methods:
- Combines Maximum Parsimony and Phylogenetic Networks approaches.
- Utilizes high-quality and informative phenotypic datasets.
- Addresses questions of pattern and process in human phylogeny.
Main Results:
- The protocol provides a framework for understanding complex hominin evolutionary relationships.
- It enables the investigation of potential reticulate evolution within the genus Homo.
- Meaningful results depend on the quality of phenotypic data used.
Conclusions:
- The protocol offers a robust method for studying hominin phylogeny and evolutionary history.
- It has the potential to redefine our understanding of genus Homo evolution.
- Accurate taxonomic definitions and evolutionary insights rely on comprehensive phenotypic data.
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