Q28.1-3CC - Campbell Biology

Question

After studying Figure 28.3, predict how many distinct genomes are contained within the cell of a chlorarachniophyte. Explain.

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Chlorarachniophytes are organisms belonging to the domain Eukarya and phylum Cercozoa. They are a group of marine algae. They are evolved from heterotrophic eukaryotes. They contain four distinct DNA inside their cell. 

Step 1: Algae

Algae are organisms that lack many structures, such as roots, stems, and leaves. They can perform photosynthesis due to the presence of chlorophyll in their cell. Some of the examples are Chlorarachniophytes (marine algae) and diatoms. 

Step 2: Genetic material

The term genetic material indicates the material stored inside the cell's nucleus that helps transfer traits from parents to offspring. DNA and RNA are considered the genetic material of living organisms. 

Step 3: Number of the genome in chlorarachniophytes

Chlorarachniophytes are organisms that ingest bacteria and small protists for their survival. They belong to class Chlorarachniophyceae and subphylum Filosa. They contain genetic material inside their cell. 

The first genome (DNA) is located inside the nucleus of Chlorarachniophytes. The second genome is located inside the nucleus of green algae. The mitochondria and chloroplast also contain DNA in their structure. 

So third and fourth genomes are located in mitochondria, and chloroplast is located in chlorarachniophyte.