Date Approved
2006
Degree Type
Open Access Senior Honors Thesis
Department or School
Geography and Geology
First Advisor
Dr. Steven T. LoDuca
Abstract
Dasycladalean algae are a group of marine algae that have an excellent fossil record extending back more than 500 million years. In our study, we investigated morphological complexity over the evolutionary history of this group. To determine complexity for each of more than 400 species, we assigned numerical values for six morphological features; the sum for each species forms a quantitative expression of complexity. We found that although maximum complexity increased over time, forms with minimum complexity persisted during most of the evolutionary history of the group.
Recommended Citation
Stearns, Michael, "Complexity trends in the evolutionary history of dasycladalean algae" (2006). Senior Honors Theses and Projects. 29.
https://commons.emich.edu/honors/29