Evolution by Computer
April 7, 2014Advertisement
Bioinformatics researchers at the Heidelberg Institute for Theoretical Studies hope to gather as much genetic information as possible to create a family tree for insects. The only way to effectively manage this mass of data, however, is to use a supercomputer. The scientists test how plausible their results are by comparing them with existing fossil finds. The aim is to better understand insect species - which are both ecologically and economically important. The bioinformatics experts would also like to apply their programs to other living things. For example determining a virus’s family tree could be of enormous help in tracking the way it spreads.