Which of the following is the strongest evidence for the idea that present-day eukaryotic aerobes are the descendants of the successful symbiotic association of anaerobes and aerobes?
A) Mitochondria can produce ATP.
B) A mitochondrion can survive indefinitely when removed from a eukaryotic cell.
C) A mitochondrion has its own set of DNA molecules.
D) Fossilized mitochondria are older than the oldest fossilized eukaryotes.
E) All eukaryotic cells have mitochondria.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Mitochondria having their own set of DNA molecules is the strongest evidence for the endosymbiotic theory. It suggests that mitochondria were once free-living bacteria that established a successful symbiotic relationship with early anaerobic eukaryotes. This theory is well-supported by molecular, biochemical and genetic evidence.

Which of the Following Is the Strongest Evidence for the Idea