Multiple Choice
Which of the following is not an evolutionary mechanism responsible for organismal diversity?
1492
views
10
rank
1
comments
1. Overview of Cell Biology
Evolution of the Cell
Multiple Choice
In the context of the evolution of the eukaryotic cell (endosymbiotic theory), mitochondria most likely originated from which ancestral organism?
A
An internal specialization of the endoplasmic reticulum that evolved to produce ATP
B
A cyanobacterium that was engulfed and evolved into the organelle responsible for cellular respiration
C
A virus that integrated into the host genome and later became a double-membrane organelle
D
An aerobic alpha-proteobacterium that was engulfed by an ancestral host cell and became an endosymbiont
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the endosymbiotic theory, which explains the origin of certain organelles in eukaryotic cells as a result of a symbiotic relationship between ancestral prokaryotic cells and early eukaryotes.
Recall that mitochondria are double-membraned organelles responsible for producing ATP through cellular respiration, indicating a prokaryotic origin related to aerobic metabolism.
Identify that mitochondria most likely originated from an aerobic alpha-proteobacterium, a type of bacteria capable of using oxygen to generate energy efficiently.
Recognize that this alpha-proteobacterium was engulfed by an ancestral host cell, but instead of being digested, it formed a mutually beneficial relationship, becoming an endosymbiont.
Conclude that over evolutionary time, this endosymbiont evolved into the mitochondrion, retaining some bacterial features such as its own DNA and double membrane.
Related Videos
Related Practice
