Ancestors in Evolutionary Biology: Linear Thinking about Branching Trees (Systematics Association Special Volume Series)
Explore the intricate relationship between ancestry, evolutionary theory, and systematics with Ancestors in Evolutionary Biology: Linear Thinking about Branching Trees, part of the prestigious Systematics Association Special Volume Series. Available now at Books Hub PK, this authoritative volume offers a fresh and thought-provoking examination of how evolutionary ancestry is conceptualized in modern biology.
Written and edited by leading evolutionary biologists and philosophers of science, this book tackles a fundamental issue: How should we understand “ancestors” in the age of phylogenetic trees and cladistics? Moving beyond the conventional tree-like model of evolution, it critiques the limitations of linear descent models and promotes a nuanced view of branching evolution, reticulation, and network thinking.
Combining insights from historical biology, systematics, paleontology, and philosophy, this volume is ideal for researchers and students seeking to deepen their understanding of evolutionary relationships, classification systems, and the conceptual foundations of tree-thinking in biology.
📘 Key Features:
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Comprehensive discussion of ancestry and descent in phylogenetic frameworks
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Challenges the linear model of evolution with evidence from molecular biology, paleontology, and systematics
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Contributions from international experts in evolutionary theory
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Case studies on species concepts, evolutionary transitions, and genealogical modeling
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Explores the impact of gene flow, horizontal transfer, and hybridization on tree-based models
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Invaluable resource for those working on evolution, taxonomy, and systematics
This book is an essential addition for postgraduate students, evolutionary theorists, taxonomists, and professionals involved in biological classification and phylogenetic inference.
