The Archaea Are

question 63

Multiple Choice

The Archaea are

• A) primarily ancient organisms that have not evolved very much in the last billion years.
• B) phylogenetically diverse, but functionally restricted to extremophiles and chemolithotrophs.
• C) diverse microorganisms that inhabit almost every environment on Earth, including the colon of humans and other mammals.
• D) functionally diverse, but restricted to thermophilic or hyperthermophilic environments.

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Definitions:

Organizing Principle

A core concept or belief that structures and guides the behavior of a system or society.

Evolutionary Change

The process by which species undergo modifications and adaptations over time leading to new species formations.

Genetic Material

The molecules inside cells that carry genetic information, primarily DNA and RNA, which determine hereditary characteristics.

Natural Selection

A process in biological evolution where organisms with traits better suited to their environment are more likely to survive and reproduce.