Estimating Divergence Times from Molecular Data on Phylogenetic and Population Genetic Timescales

TLDR

Molecular clocks have reshaped our understanding of when key evolutionary events occurred. This review surveys recent progress in estimating divergence times from molecular data across phylogenetic and population genetic scales. The authors examine DNA sequence evolution models, rate variation, ancestral population processes, and new statistical methods, underscoring the importance of rigorous model testing in divergence time estimation.

Abstract

▪ Abstract Molecular clocks have profoundly influenced modern views on the timing of important events in evolutionary history. We review recent advances in estimating divergence times from molecular data, emphasizing the continuum between processes at the phylogenetic and population genetic scales. On the phylogenetic scale, we address the complexities of DNA sequence evolution as they relate to estimating divergences, focusing on models of nucleotide substitution and problems associated with among-site and among-lineage rate variation. On the population genetic scale, we review advances in the incorporation of ancestral population processes into the estimation of divergence times between recently separated species. Throughout the review we emphasize new statistical methods and the importance of model testing during the process of divergence time estimation.