phylogeny

1. The evolutionary development and history of a species or higher taxonomic grouping of organisms. Also called phylogenesis.
2. The evolutionary development of an organ or other part of an organism: the phylogeny of the amphibian intestinal tract.
3. The historical development of a tribe or racial group.

Origin:

Origin: Greek phūlon, race, class; see phylum

Origin: + -geny

Related Forms:

• phyˌlo·genˈic (-jĕnˈĭk) adjective