In phylogenetics, the unrooted model of phylogeny and the strict molecular clock model are two extremes of a continuum. Despite their dominance in phylogenetic inference, it is evident that both are biologically unrealistic and that the real evolutionary process lies between these two extremes. Fortunately, intermediate models employing relaxed molecular clocks have been described. These models...

Basic phylogenetics and associated "tree thinking" are often minimized or excluded in formal school curricula. Informal settings provide an opportunity to extend the K-12 school curriculum, introducing learners to new ideas, piquing interest in science, and fostering scientific literacy. Similarly, university researchers participating in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) ...

The current article focuses on the morphological and molecular characterization of often inconspicuous genus Amicula. This recently erected from brackish marine sediments was monotypic but here we describe two new tropical species: Amicula micronesica sp. nov. vermiculata Once considered an incertae sedis regarding its higher rank taxonomy, position among family Diploneidaceae is proposed by ph...