Summary
Uses phylogenetic distance among co-occurring species to infer assembly processes.
In depth
If co-occurring species are more closely related than expected, environmental filtering is suggested; if less related, competition. Combined with trait data.
Phylogenetic structure indicates assembly processes. Clustering suggests environmental filtering; overdispersion suggests competition.
Key idea: phylogenetic relatedness of community members informs ecology.
Community phylogenetics combines phylogenetic trees with ecological data to infer how communities assemble. If co-occurring species are more closely related than expected by chance (phylogenetic clustering), this suggests environmental filtering of shared traits; if they are more distantly related (overdispersion), it suggests competition excluding similar relatives.
Metrics include net relatedness index (NRI) and nearest taxon index (NTI), compared with null models that shuffle species. The approach assumes that traits are phylogenetically conserved, which is not always true, and scale matters. It is used to study succession, invasion (Darwin's naturalisation hypothesis) and the effects of disturbance.
Example: oak savannas show closely related tree species in dry sites.
Remember: patterns are suggestive, not proof of process.
Frequently asked questions
What is Community Phylogenetics?
Uses phylogenetic distance among co-occurring species to infer assembly processes.
Which area of biology covers Community Phylogenetics, and how advanced is it?
Community Phylogenetics is one of the 52 topics in Taxonomy & Biodiversity. It is rated Advanced, so it suits learners who want specialist depth. Related topics in this area include Phylogenetic Diversity, Molecular Systematics, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Function.
Can you give an example of Community Phylogenetics?
Studies of Darwin's naturalisation hypothesis test whether invasives are distantly related to natives.
What should I learn before Community Phylogenetics?
Work through the Beginner topics in Taxonomy & Biodiversity first, such as Taxonomy, Binomial Nomenclature, Taxonomic Hierarchy, then return to Community Phylogenetics. Advanced topics assume the Intermediate vocabulary.
What topics are related to Community Phylogenetics?
The closest topics to Community Phylogenetics are Phylogenetic Diversity, Molecular Systematics, Biodiversity and Ecosystem Function, Conservation Biology. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Community Phylogenetics?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Community Phylogenetics. To practise the whole of Taxonomy & Biodiversity, use the Taxonomy & Biodiversity quiz.
How is Community Phylogenetics different from Phylogenetic Diversity?
Community Phylogenetics: Uses phylogenetic distance among co-occurring species to infer assembly processes. Phylogenetic Diversity: Measures biodiversity by the total evolutionary history represented by a set of species. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Community Phylogenetics step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Phylogenetic Diversity and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Taxonomy & Biodiversity quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.