In general, such ambiguities and lack of information are not a major problem as long as the diagrams are small and represent genes, proteins and their local interactions.

The Problem With Tree RootsGolfers generally seem to understand (or have been made aware) that tree root systems aggressively compete with turfgrasses for available water and nutrients, and that trees ...

The problem of limitations is especially true for tree diagrams that don’t resemble trees – and fewer and fewer do. Lima’s guidance is sadly absent where it’s needed most.

Lessons on language families are often illustrated with a simple tree diagram that has all the information but lacks imagination. There’s no reason linguistics has to be so visually uninspiring.