Abstract
Summary Molecular data have been increasingly used to study the phylogenetic relationships among many animal taxa, including arthropods. Sometimes they have provided phylogenetic reconstructions that are in conflict with morphological data leading to a re-evaluation of long-standing evolutionary hypotheses. In this paper, we review the major contributions to the phylogeny of hexapods based on molecular data, with emphasis on the relationships of basal hexapod taxa. The placement and the monophyly of the five basal hexapod lineages (the “apterygotes”: Protura, Collembola, Diplura, Microcoryphia and Zygentoma) are one of the hottest issues in arthropod phylogeny. We discuss methods of data collection and analysis, and we describe the areas of conflict and agreement between molecular phylogenies and the evidence provided by morphological characters.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
