A phylogenetic tree, also known as a phylogeny, is a diagram that depicts the lines of evolutionary descent of different species, organisms, or genes from a common ancestor.

The Open Tree of Life aims to construct a fully "comprehensive, dynamic, and digitally-available tree of life" using the data already published by phylogenic trees of life from around the world.

This phylogenetic tree, built from genetic sequencing and fossil data, helps explain the relationships between different kinds of insects across millions of years of evolution.

Researchers from aroudn the world have created the first ever comprehensive phylogenetic tree for insects. Here are a few highlights.