A phylogenetic Gaussian process model for the evolution of curves embedded in d-dimensions

Statistical methods which enable shape information on organisms to be used to construct a phylogenetic tree and to learn how shape evolves are developed. In particular, this allows the evolution of facial curves to be used in studying relationships between and within different ethnic groups and their ancestors. The main challenge is to exploit the details of surface shape, while maintaining computational feasibility. A Gaussian process approach is adopted.