Properly deciphering the branching pathways of evolution could unlock the history of every component of natural biology.

All species on Earth, both living and extinct, are related. We know this because of a biological tool called the tree of life. This "tree" takes the form of a diagram that maps the relationships ...

Samuel L. Boyd does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond ...

Beach visitors pose with the “Tree of Life” on Kalaloch Beach in Olympic National Park before the tree sank during storms in early 2025. Mathew Nichols Photography Courtesy A tree that seems to defy ...