Endosymbiosis, Protists, and Plants Study Guide

Flashcards covering key terms and definitions related to endosymbiosis, protists, and plant biology.

Endosymbiont Theory

Proposes that mitochondria and chloroplasts evolved from free-living prokaryotes through symbiosis.

Three Domain Hypothesis

A classification system that includes Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya as separate domains.

Eocyte Hypothesis

Suggests that Eukaryotes emerged from within the Archaea domain, closely related to Asgard Archaea.

Primary Endosymbiosis

Occurs when a eukaryote engulfs a cyanobacterium, leading to the development of chloroplasts.

Secondary Endosymbiosis

Involves eukaryotes engulfing other eukaryotic cells that already contain chloroplasts.

Protists

A diverse group of eukaryotic organisms not classified as plants, animals, or fungi.

Cuticle

A protective layer that reduces water loss in plants, especially significant for terrestrial adaptation.

Haploid (n)

Organisms with one set of chromosomes, typically found in gametophytes.

Diploid (2n)

Organisms with two sets of chromosomes, typically found in sporophytes.

Alternation of Generations

A life cycle strategy where plants alternate between haploid gametophyte and diploid sporophyte stages.

Tracheids

Water-conducting cells in vascular plants, aiding in water transport.

Gymnosperms

Seed plants that produce naked seeds; examples include ginkgos and conifers.

Flower Anatomy

The structure of flowers, including sepals, petals, stamens, and carpels.

Darwin’s Abominable Mystery

The rapid diversification of flowering plants, with proposed solutions such as co-evolution with pollinators.

Dispersal Syndromes

Adaptations that facilitate seed dispersal, like lightweight seeds and fleshy fruits for animals.

What is evaporation?

Evaporation is the process by which water changes from a liquid to a gas, typically occurring at the surface of the liquid.

What is condensation?

Condensation is the process by which water vapor in the air cools and changes back into liquid form, often resulting in cloud formation.

What is precipitation?

Precipitation is any form of water, liquid or solid, that falls from the atmosphere and reaches the ground, including rain, snow, sleet, and hail.

What is collection in the water cycle?

Collection is the process where water gathers in bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, and oceans after precipitation.

What role do plants play in the water cycle?

Plants contribute to the water cycle through transpiration, a process where they release water vapor into the atmosphere.

What are the main parts of a plant?

The main parts of a plant include the roots, stems, leaves, and reproductive structures (flowers or cones).

What is the function of roots in plants?

Roots anchor the plant in the soil and absorb water and nutrients needed for growth.

What is photosynthesis?

Photosynthesis is the process by which green plants use sunlight, carbon dioxide, and water to produce glucose and oxygen.

What adaptations do land plants have for survival?

Land plants have adaptations such as a waxy cuticle to reduce water loss, specialized tissues for support and transport, and mechanisms for reproduction that do not require water.

What is the significance of vascular tissues in land plants?

Vascular tissues (xylem and phloem) transport water, nutrients, and food throughout the plant, allowing for growth and adaptation to terrestrial environments.

How did the evolution of land plants impact the ecosystem?

The evolution of land plants transformed ecosystems by providing oxygen, creating habitats, and contributing to soil formation and stability.