Meaning & Definition of word "Phylogeny"
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Phylogeny
/faɪˈlɒdʒəni/
noun:
- 1. The evolutionary history and relationships among a group of organisms.
- Example: The phylogeny of birds can be traced back to theropod dinosaurs.
- 2. A diagram that represents the evolutionary relationships among species or groups, known as a phylogenetic tree.
- Example: The phylogeny of the primate family is illustrated in this comprehensive phylogenetic tree.
- 3. The study of the evolutionary development and diversification of a particular group of organisms.
- Example: Research in phylogeny helps scientists understand the emergence of antibiotic resistance in bacteria.
- 4. The sequence of events involved in the evolutionary development of a species or a group of species.
- Example: By analyzing genetic data, researchers can reconstruct the phylogeny of ancient mammals.
Etymology
From the Greek 'phylo-', meaning 'race' or 'tribe', and 'geny', meaning 'origin' or 'birth'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
phylogenetic tree:
A branching diagram showing the relationships among various biological species.
molecular phylogeny:
Using molecular data to determine the evolutionary relationships among species.
Related Words
taxonomy:
The science of classification of organisms.
cladistics:
A method of classifying species based on common ancestry.
evolution:
The process through which species change over time.
Slang Meanings of phylogeny
Meaning: Phylo
Example Sentence: In the lab, we often refer to phylogenetic trees simply as 'phylo' diagrams.
Meaning: Tree of life
Example Sentence: When discussing species diversity, we might call it the 'tree of life'.