Phylogeography

Phylogeography is a relatively new field of research that attempts to explain geographic-genetic differentiation patterns historically. For this purpose, the distribution of genetic lineages of animal and plant species is correlated with geological events. Thus, speciation processes are also in the focus of this research direction.

Phylogeographic research integrates information from different disciplines, such as molecular genetics (phylogenetics, population genetics), taxonomy, (paleo)geography, and paleontology, to better understand current diversity as a result of historical splitting and diversification of ancestral gene pools.

Results of phylogeographic studies often have direct relevance for taxonomy, species and conservation (identification of cryptic genetic lineages, introduced and autochthonous specimens, predictions of range changes in response to environmental change).

These studies contribute to the Senckenberg research area Biodiversity and Systematics.