Question

Mitochondria and chloroplast are regarded as endosymbionts because

• A. They do not have de novo origin
• B. They both possess nucleic acids
• C. Their membranes are like those of prokaryotes
• D. All of the above

Answer 1

The correct option is C Their membranes are like those of prokaryotes

According to endosymbiont theory, eukaryotic organisms evolved from symbiotic associations between prokaryotic ancestors. Aerobic bacteria and photosynthetic cyanobacteria became incorporated inside nucleated eukaryotic cells, where they acted as forerunners of the mitochondria and chloroplast seen in modern eukaryotes. There is strong evidence of this theory, particularly the finding that mitochondria and chloroplasts have DNA form to that of eubacteria and that they contain prokaryotic-type ribosomes.

So, the correct answer is option C.