Adding time‐calibrated branch lengths to the Asteraceae supertree

摘要: New inference techniques, such as supertrees, have improved the construction of large phylogenies, helping to reveal tree life. In addition, these phylogenies enhanced study other evolutionary questions, whether traits evolved in a neutral or adaptive way, what factors influenced diversification. However, supertrees usually lack branch lengths, which are necessary for all issues be investigated. Here, divergence times within largest family flowering plants, namely Asteraceae, reviewed estimate time-calibrated lengths supertree this lineage. An inconsistency between estimated dates basal branching events and earliest asteraceous fossil pollen record was detected. impact different methods length assignment on total number transitions states reconstruction sexual system evolution Asteraceae At least dataset, assignation approaches maximum likelihood (ML) reconstructions only not Bayesian ones. Therefore, selection information is arbitrary should carefully assessed, at when ML being used. The provide useful tool future phylogenetic comparative macroevolutionary studies Asteraceae.