<scp>CladeDate</scp> : Calibration information generator for divergence time estimation

Time-scaled phylogenetic trees are essential tools in modern biology and node-based calibrations have been the main approach to time-tree estimation. But methods for generating required calibration information scarce difficult parameterize. Here, I present CladeDate, an R package generation of empirical from fossil record. CladeDate uses simple mathematical models estimate age a clade its uncertainty based on times. Using Monte Carlo approach, generates densities representing associated with fits standard probability density functions that can be used inference software such as BEAST2, MrBayes MCMCtree. show simulations generated produces accurate time-trees compares favourably more complex methods. demonstrate use information, including point estimates, upper bounds densities, passerine birds. is particularly suited groups limited or when assumptions not met, provides general practical solution problem divergence time