ENDOSYMBIOSIS THEORY Meaning and
Definition
-
Endosymbiosis theory is a scientific concept that describes a mechanism by which complex organisms, such as eukaryotic cells, have evolved from simpler organisms through a mutually beneficial relationship between different species. According to this theory, early eukaryotic cells (ancestor of modern cells) originated through the incorporation of smaller prokaryotic cells into larger ones.
The endosymbiosis theory suggests that ancient eukaryotic cells engulfed aerobic bacteria, such as mitochondria, and photosynthetic bacteria, such as chloroplasts, which eventually became permanent residents within the host cell. This process, known as endosymbiosis, allowed for the transfer of genetic material and metabolic capabilities between the host and engulfed cells. Over time, these endosymbiotic relationships evolved into a symbiotic partnership, where both the host cell and the engulfed cells derived mutual benefits.
This theory proposes that the host cell provided a protected environment and nutrients for the engulfed cells, allowing them to survive and reproduce. In return, the engulfed cells provided energy in the form of ATP (adenosine triphosphate) and other essential metabolic functions to the host cell.
The endosymbiosis theory is supported by several lines of evidence, including the similarities between mitochondria and certain bacteria, such as their own DNA, reproduction through binary fission, and some independent control over their internal processes. Additionally, the presence of endosymbiotic relationships similar to those proposed by the theory can be observed in certain organisms today, such as lichens, where a fungus and an alga live together in a mutually beneficial partnership.
Common Misspellings for ENDOSYMBIOSIS THEORY
- wndosymbiosis theory
- sndosymbiosis theory
- dndosymbiosis theory
- rndosymbiosis theory
- 4ndosymbiosis theory
- 3ndosymbiosis theory
- ebdosymbiosis theory
- emdosymbiosis theory
- ejdosymbiosis theory
- ehdosymbiosis theory
- ensosymbiosis theory
- enxosymbiosis theory
- encosymbiosis theory
- enfosymbiosis theory
- enrosymbiosis theory
- eneosymbiosis theory
- endisymbiosis theory
- endksymbiosis theory
- endlsymbiosis theory
- endpsymbiosis theory
Etymology of ENDOSYMBIOSIS THEORY
The word "endosymbiosis" originated from the combination of two Greek words: "endo" meaning "within" and "symbiosis" meaning "living together". The term was first coined in the 1960s by biologist Lynn Margulis to describe a theory proposing that certain eukaryotic organelles, such as mitochondria and chloroplasts, were originally independent living organisms that entered into a symbiotic relationship with a host cell. This theory later became known as the "endosymbiosis theory".
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
