Multiple Choice
Which definition describes endosymbiosis best?
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5. Cell Components
Endosymbiotic Theory
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Which of the following is the best definition of endosymbiotic bacteria?
A
Bacteria that cause disease by invading host tissues.
B
Bacteria that live inside the cells of another organism in a mutually beneficial relationship.
C
Bacteria that form colonies on the surface of plant roots.
D
Bacteria that survive only in extreme environmental conditions.
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the term 'endosymbiotic bacteria': These are bacteria that live inside the cells of another organism in a mutually beneficial relationship. The term 'endo-' means 'inside,' and 'symbiotic' refers to a close and often mutually beneficial relationship between two organisms.
Analyze the first option: 'Bacteria that cause disease by invading host tissues.' This describes pathogenic bacteria, not endosymbiotic bacteria, as the relationship is harmful rather than beneficial.
Analyze the second option: 'Bacteria that live inside the cells of another organism in a mutually beneficial relationship.' This matches the definition of endosymbiotic bacteria, as it highlights both the intracellular location and the mutual benefit.
Analyze the third option: 'Bacteria that form colonies on the surface of plant roots.' These are likely rhizobacteria or other surface-dwelling bacteria, not endosymbiotic bacteria, as they do not live inside the cells of the host.
Analyze the fourth option: 'Bacteria that survive only in extreme environmental conditions.' These are extremophiles, not endosymbiotic bacteria, as their defining characteristic is their ability to thrive in extreme environments rather than forming a mutualistic intracellular relationship.
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