What is the primary evidence for the endosymbiotic theory, which explains the origin of eukaryotic cells?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the primary evidence that supports the endosymbiotic theory, which is a scientific explanation for how eukaryotic cells originated. It presents multiple options that suggest different types of evidence, and the task is to identify the most compelling one.
Answer
Organelle genomes are the primary evidence for the endosymbiotic theory.
The primary evidence for the endosymbiotic theory includes the presence of organelle genomes, which are similar to prokaryotic cells, highlighting the physiological and biochemical similarities between certain organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, and ancient prokaryotes.
Answer for screen readers
The primary evidence for the endosymbiotic theory includes the presence of organelle genomes, which are similar to prokaryotic cells, highlighting the physiological and biochemical similarities between certain organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, and ancient prokaryotes.
More Information
The similarities between mitochondria/chloroplasts and prokaryotic cells include the presence of their own DNA, which is circular like bacterial DNA, and the double membranes surrounding them, which suggest a phagocytic origin. These organelles also replicate independently within the cell, similar to bacterial division.
Sources
- 7.8: The Endosymbiotic Theory - Biology LibreTexts - bio.libretexts.org
- Evidence for endosymbiosis - Understanding Evolution - evolution.berkeley.edu
- Endosymbiosis theory (video) - Khan Academy - khanacademy.org
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