The literal tree of life is useful, updatable and already needs updates

If asked what animal is genetically closest to a hippo, you might point at any number of four legged, land-roving mammals with hooves, such as a pig or a very fat cow, because we have a natural tendency to think that animals that look similar will also be genetically related. In this case, however, the right answer is whales… obviously. An animal’s morphology can hide … Continue reading The literal tree of life is useful, updatable and already needs updates