Archaeplastida
Definition
Archaeplastida is a major group of autotrophic eukaryotes that includes land plants, green algae, and red algae. They are characterized by the presence of plastids that originated from endosymbiosis with cyanobacteria.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Archaeplastida are primary producers in many ecosystems and form the base of food webs.
- This group is crucial for understanding the evolution of photosynthesis in eukaryotes.
- Archaeplastida includes three major lineages: Glaucophyta, Rhodophyta (red algae), and Viridiplantae (green algae and land plants).
- The plastids found in Archaeplastida contain chlorophyll a, which is essential for photosynthesis.
- Land plants evolved from a lineage within the green algae, highlighting their evolutionary connection.
Review Questions
- What are the three major lineages included in the Archaeplastida group?
- Why are Archaeplastida important for understanding the evolution of photosynthesis?
- From which type of endosymbiotic event did Archaeplastida obtain their plastids?
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Related terms
Endosymbiosis: A symbiotic relationship where one organism lives inside another, often leading to mutual benefits.
Chlorophyll a: A type of chlorophyll that is essential for photosynthesis and found in all photosynthetic organisms.
Eukaryote: An organism whose cells contain a nucleus and other organelles enclosed within membranes.
