How is the diversification of asexual *Aspidoscelis* lineages typically represented phylogenetically?
Answer
An evolutionary network
The evolutionary history of *Aspidoscelis* is not accurately depicted by a traditional, neat phylogenetic species tree, which implies divergence through simple branching splits. Because asexual lineages reproduce clonally, their diversification is characterized by the proliferation and persistence of successful clones. Furthermore, asexual lineages can occasionally merge or arise independently from different sexual ancestors multiple times. This complex pattern, which reflects independent origins and the reticulated (net-like) persistence of specific clonal lines, is best visualized and represented as an evolutionary network rather than a simple bifurcating tree structure.
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