Endosymbiosis
Definition
Endosymbiosis is a mutually beneficial relationship where one organism lives inside another. This theory explains how complex cells (eukaryotes) evolved from simple cells (prokaryotes).
Analogy
Think of endosymbiosis like roommates sharing an apartment. One roommate (the host cell) offers the other (the symbiont) a place to live, and in return, the symbiont helps with chores around the house like cooking or cleaning.
Related terms
Symbiosis: A close and long-term biological interaction between two different biological organisms.
Mitochondria: An organelle found in large numbers in most cells, where biochemical processes of respiration and energy production occur.
Chloroplasts: Organelles that conduct photosynthesis, where the photosynthetic pigment chlorophyll captures the energy from sunlight.
"Endosymbiosis" appears in:
Study guides (1)
Practice Questions (7)
What is the hypothesis of endosymbiosis?
Which of the following statements is true about endosymbiosis?
Which organelles are thought to have originated through endosymbiosis?
Which type of endosymbiosis is believed to have given rise to mitochondria?
Which type of endosymbiosis is believed to have given rise to chloroplasts?
Which of the following is an example of endosymbiosis?
Ancient endosymbiosis would be a demonstration of which symbiotic relationship?
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