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The powers and pitfalls of parsimony

Nature volume 361, pages 603–607 (1993)Cite this article

Abstract

Parsimony analysis is a powerful tool for the study of biological evolution. It is used to construct phylogenetic trees, to evaluate alternative hypotheses objectively, and to study evolutionary pattern and process. Yet, as comparative data sets expand, the pitfalls of parsimony analysis are catching experts and novices alike.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Biological Sciences, State University of New York at Albany, Albany, New York, 12222, USA

    Caro-Beth Stewart

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  1. Caro-Beth Stewart
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Stewart, CB. The powers and pitfalls of parsimony. Nature 361, 603–607 (1993). https://doi.org/10.1038/361603a0

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