Endosymbiosis

Definition

Endosymbiosis is a mutually beneficial relationship where one organism lives inside another. This theory explains how complex cells (eukaryotes) evolved from simple cells (prokaryotes).

Related terms

Symbiosis: A close and long-term biological interaction between two different biological organisms.

Mitochondria: An organelle found in large numbers in most cells, where biochemical processes of respiration and energy production occur.

Chloroplasts: Organelles that conduct photosynthesis, where the photosynthetic pigment chlorophyll captures the energy from sunlight.