Major Evolution in Action

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Two lifeforms merge in once-in-a-billion years evolutionary event
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This is an interesting article about the likelihood of endosymbioses (combining two different kinds of cells together to make a new evolutionary line) occurring.

These can be major events in evolution (like making eukaryotes or plants), but maybe not always.

Here is a link to a thread I made on a similar Nature article a few years ago:
https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/new-eukaryotic-endosymbiont-found.1000450/
It involves a ciliate (eukaryote, normally with mitochondria) with a degraded form of mitochondria that acquired a bacterial symbiont that could make metabolic use of nitrate to generate ATP.

How might endosymbiosis be distinguished from just a symbiosis between cells exchanging nutrients adjacent to each other in their environment?
Here are some possibilities:
  • irreversible envelopment of one by the other. The internalized symbiont could be dependent on its host cell for a variety of reasons. If visualized as cell lineages (like a phylogenetic tree) the lineages of the internalized symbiont would be forever limited to being in the lineage of the host organism. Most likely the host would be dependent on the internalized symbiont in some way.
  • gene transfer (usually from the internalized symbiont genome to the host genome. This would provide a clear basis for the dependance of the internalized symbiont on the host.
 
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FAQ: Major Evolution in Action

What is "Major Evolution in Action"?

"Major Evolution in Action" refers to significant and observable changes in species over time that can be documented through various scientific methods. This concept highlights instances where evolutionary processes, such as natural selection, genetic drift, and speciation, can be seen in real-time or through fossil records.

What are some examples of major evolution in action?

Examples of major evolution in action include the development of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, the diversification of finches in the Galápagos Islands, and the changes in beak size and shape in response to food availability. Other notable examples include the evolution of the peppered moth during the Industrial Revolution and the adaptation of certain fish species to extreme environments.

How do scientists study major evolution in action?

Scientists study major evolution in action through a combination of field studies, laboratory experiments, and genetic analysis. They may observe populations in their natural habitats, conduct controlled experiments to test specific evolutionary hypotheses, and use genomic sequencing to understand the genetic changes that accompany evolutionary shifts.

Why is understanding major evolution in action important?

Understanding major evolution in action is crucial for several reasons. It helps us comprehend the mechanisms of evolution, informs conservation efforts by identifying how species adapt to changing environments, and improves our understanding of human health issues, such as the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens. Additionally, it provides insights into biodiversity and the resilience of ecosystems.

Can major evolution in action be observed in humans?

Yes, major evolution in action can be observed in humans. Examples include the evolution of lactose tolerance in certain populations, adaptations to high altitudes in Andean and Himalayan populations, and changes in disease susceptibility due to genetic variations. These adaptations illustrate how human populations continue to evolve in response to environmental pressures and cultural practices.

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