Most phylogenetic comparative methods used for testing adaptive hypotheses make evolutionary assumptions that are not compatible with evolution toward an optimal state. As a consequence they do not correct for maladaptation. The “evolutionary regression” that is returned is more shallow than the optimal relationship between the trait and environment. We show how both evolutionary and optimal regressions, as well as phylogenetic inertia, can be estimated jointly by a comparative method built around an Ornstein–Uhlenbeck model of adaptive evolution. The method considers a single trait adapting to an optimum that is influenced by one or more continuous, randomly changing predictor variables.
How to translate text using browser tools
1 August 2008
A Comparative Method for Studying Adaptation to a Randomly Evolving Environment
Thomas F. Hansen,
Jason Pienaar,
Steven Hecht Orzack
ACCESS THE FULL ARTICLE
It is not available for individual sale.
This article is only available to subscribers.
It is not available for individual sale.
It is not available for individual sale.
Evolution
Vol. 62 • No. 8
August 2008
Vol. 62 • No. 8
August 2008
Adaptation
maladaptation
Optimality
Ornstein–Uhlenbeck process
PHYLOGENETIC COMPARATIVE METHOD
Phylogenetic effect
phylogenetic inertia