MetaTreeMap: An Alternative Visualization Method for Displaying Metagenomic Phylogenic Trees

PLoS One. 2016 Jun 23;11(6):e0158261. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0158261. eCollection 2016.

Abstract

Metagenomic samples can contain hundreds or thousands of different species. The most common method to identify these species is to sequence the samples and then classify the reads to nodes along a phylogenic tree. Linear representations of trees with so many nodes face legibility issues. In addition, such views are not optimal for appreciating the read quantity assigned to each node. The problem is exaggerated when comparison between multiple samples is needed. MetaTreeMap adapts a visualization method that addresses these weaknesses. The tree is represented by nested rectangles that illustrate the number or percentage of assigned reads. MetaTreeMap implements various options specific to phylogenic trees that allow for quick overview and investigation of the information. More generally, the goal of this software is to provide the user with the ability to easily display phylogenic trees based on various quantities assigned to the nodes, such as read number, percentage or other values. The tool can be used online at http://metasystems.riken.jp/visualization/treemap/.

MeSH terms

  • Computer Graphics
  • Metagenomics / methods*
  • Phylogeny
  • Software*
  • User-Computer Interface
  • Web Browser

Grants and funding

This work was supported by the operational expenditure fund of RIKEN.