Which explanation is currently thought to be the best reason why transposable elements are so prevalent in eukaryotic genomes?
A) They provide a selective advantage by knocking out unessential genes.
B) They benefit an organism by regulating genes.
C) They maintain the integrity of the genome.
D) They replicate and thus are able to persist, despite being neutral or even deleterious to an organism.
E) They increase genetic variation.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Transposable elements are prevalent in eukaryotic genomes primarily because they have the ability to replicate within the genome. This replication allows them to persist over generations, regardless of whether they confer a benefit, are neutral, or even deleterious to the organism. Their persistence is not necessarily because they provide a direct selective advantage to the organism in terms of gene regulation, genome integrity, or increasing genetic variation, but rather because of their inherent ability to replicate and thus maintain their presence in the genome.

Which Explanation Is Currently Thought to Be the Best Reason