Taxa are arbitrary and don't reflect the complex evolution that has occurred, so groupings don't always correspond to the pattern of divergence generated by evolution
Initially, classification was based on characteristics - a good place to start, but recent developments in understanding of genetics have made us rethink this approach
The perspective has now shifted to classify groups based on genetics to determine evolutionary relationships
Clades
Biologically meaningful groupings that reflect the pattern of evolution and branching of speciation
Classifying based on evolutionary relationships
Reflects the pattern of evolution and branching of speciation
Can be used to make predictions about characteristics eg biochemistry or ecology
Helps us to understand the diversity of life on Earth by providing context for evolution and distribution
