New phylogenetic methods would allow us to draw on the information encapsulated in phylogenetic trees in order to address a wide range of questions on macroevolution. First, this course will introduce participants to the use, modification and representation of phylogenetic trees. Then, we will focus on the use of phylogenetic information to reconstruct ancestral characters and biogeographic histories, learning how to apply phylogenetic comparative methods. This course will also tackle trait evolution modelling and the assessment of phylogenetic signal. Finally, we will learn about the shape of phylogenetic trees and its evolutionary causes and how to estimate the rates of diversification throughout the evolutionary history of groups. Participants are encouraged to bring their data sets to use in the practical class.

Important note: Please bear in mind that this course is not about reconstructing (building) phylogenetic trees.

Software: Mesquite, TreeEdit, FigTree, BayesTraits (using BayesTraits Wrapper in R), Tracer, RASP and R (ape, TreeSim, TreePar, Geiger, OUwie, BioGeoBEARS).