Moderate

The theory that explains the evolution of mitochondria and chloroplasts based on two separate mutually beneficial invasions of prokaryotic cells is called:

Correct answer: D. Endosymbiont hypothesis

  • A. Catastrophism
  • B. Recapitulation
  • C. Membrane invagination hypothesis
  • D. Endosymbiont hypothesis

Explanation

The correct answer is the endosymbiont hypothesis. This theory, proposed by Lynn Margulis, explains the origin of mitochondria and chloroplasts as a result of ancient symbiotic relationships between separate prokaryotic organisms. According to this hypothesis, aerobic bacteria were engulfed by ancestral eukaryotes, evolving into mitochondria, while photosynthetic prokaryotes became chloroplasts. This provided the host cells with advantages like aerobic respiration and photosynthesis. The other options do not specifically address this evolutionary process: Catastrophism is unrelated to biological evolution, recapitulation pertains to embryonic development, and the membrane invagination hypothesis does not involve the symbiotic origin of these organelles.

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Evolution describes heritable change in populations over generations through variation, natural selection and adaptation. Lamarckism explains inheritance of acquired characteristics, while Darwinism explains selection of favourable inherited variations; these historical explanations must not be confused with the modern genetic account of evolutionary change.

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