Parasitology, Harold W. Manter Laboratory of
Date of this Version
1-1970
Abstract
The purpose here is to suggest a method which will permit understanding of the phylogenetic relationships of contemporary representatives of the phylum Nematoda without fossils. It is not my intent to again offer a phylogeny for the Nematoda. To say that no real benefit or knowledge of phylogeny or evolution is possible without fossils is succumbing to apathy. One cannot deny or ignore that all systems, morphological, biological and chemical manifested in modern forms developed by evolutionary sequence. It is true that with a complete fossil record the rates of evolution and developmental pressures could be accurately evaluated. However, in the absence of a fossil record evolutionary relations and developmental tendencies can be assessed by the use of direct or corollary system analysis. Taxonomists must not overlook systems and their analysis.
Comments
Published in the Journal of Nematology (January 1970) 2(1): 7-15. Copyright 1970, the Society of Nematologists. Used by permission.