A survey of nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer substitution rates across angiosperms: an approximate molecular clock with life history effects
2006

Substitution Rates in Angiosperms' Nuclear Ribosomal DNA

Sample size: 28 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kay Kathleen M, Whittall Justen B, Hodges Scott A

Primary Institution: Michigan State University

Hypothesis

How do substitution rates in the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) vary among angiosperms?

Conclusion

Angiosperm nrITS substitution rates vary significantly, influenced by life history categories.

Supporting Evidence

  • The study summarizes 28 independently calibrated nrITS substitution rates.
  • Herbaceous lineages have substitution rates almost twice as high as woody plants.
  • The mean substitution rate across the studied lineages is 2.86 × 10-9 subs/site/yr.

Takeaway

This study looks at how fast certain plants change their DNA over time, finding that some types of plants change faster than others.

Methodology

The study systematically reviewed literature to assess nrITS substitution rates and their variation across angiosperms.

Potential Biases

Potential biases in calibration methods and life history classifications could affect results.

Limitations

The study may not account for all sources of error in rate estimates and relies on existing literature.

Participant Demographics

The study includes various angiosperm families with differing life histories.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0013

Statistical Significance

p<0.0013

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1471-2148-6-36

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