DeepFin is a research coordination network (RCN) of systematic ichthyologists and biologists with expertise in the analysis of fish biodiversity, seeking to integrate knowledge of morphology, paleontology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. The ultimate goal of the RCN is to establish the phylogenetic tree of all fishes, to decipher their evolutionary relationships. This goal will be achieved by (i) building an open and diverse organization to provide leadership and foster collaborations for fish phylogenetic studies; (ii) developing cyberinfrastructure, a portal for fish phylogenetics (this site); and (iii) fostering education on fish biodiversity, fish evolution, and disseminating knowledge on the phylogenetic relationships of fishes. The RCN will coordinate activities in three main fronts: group meetings/workshops, website and database development, and student recruitment, training, and exchange. We are funded by a grant from the National Science Foundation (USA).

A Portal for Fish Phylogenetics

Our Directory contains a searchable database of Systematic Ichthyologists ("who is doing what" in fish systematics) and a mailing list. This directory incorporates the "Newsletter of Systematic Ichthyology," formerly published annually by the California Academy of Sciences, includes all participants of the 2003 edition, and a literature data base. You can join the directory by signing up on the right. This component of DeepFin is sponsored in part by the American Society of Ichthyologists and Herpetologists.

State-of-the-art phylogenetic hypotheses (and reasonable alternatives) will be published at the website (Tree menu) through integration with the Tree of Life Web Project. The DeepFin project promotes education on fish biodiversity, fish evolution, and current knowledge on the phylogenetic relationships of fishes.