Next-generation phylogenetics takes root

Next-generation phylogenetics takes root.

It has been a tumultuous 5 years in phylogeography and phylogenetics during which both fields have struggled to harness the power of next-generation sequencing (NGS) (Ekblom & Galindo 2010; McCormack et al. 2012a). Fortunately, several methodological approaches appear to be taking root. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, O’Neill et al. (2013) employ one such method – parallel tagged sequencing...

Applications of next-generation sequencing to phylogeography and phylogenetics.

This is a time of unprecedented transition in DNA sequencing technologies. Next-generation sequencing (NGS) clearly holds promise for fast and cost-effective generation of multilocus sequence data for phylogeography and phylogenetics. However, the focus on non-model organisms, in addition to uncertainty about which sample preparation methods and analyses are appropriate for different research q...

Next-generation polyploid phylogenetics: rapid resolution of hybrid polyploid complexes using PacBio single-molecule sequencing.

Difficulties in generating nuclear data for polyploids have impeded phylogenetic study of these groups. We describe a high-throughput protocol and an associated bioinformatics pipeline (Pipeline for Untangling Reticulate Complexes (Purc)) that is able to generate these data quickly and conveniently, and demonstrate its efficacy on accessions from the fern family Cystopteridaceae. We conclude wi...

Root patterning: it takes two to tangle

The mechanisms that pattern lateral root primordia are essential for the elaboration of root system architecture , a trait of key importance for future crop breeding. But which are most important: periodic or local cues? In this issue of Journal of Experimental Botany (pages 1411–1420), Kircher and Schopfer manipulate growth direction to demonstrate the importance of both sources of patterning ...

Stereotactic radiation takes root in cancer therapy.