endosymbiotic theory A theory first proposed by Lynn Margulis, and now widely accepted, that eukaryotic cells evolved from a symbiosis between different species of prokaryotes. Larger species, it is suggested, engulfed smaller ones that continued to live and function within the larger host cell, eventually losing all possibility of independence. Two organelles believed to have entered larger cells in this way are mitochondria and chloroplasts. Related categories • ORIGIN AND EVOLUTION OF LIFE • CELL BIOLOGY Also on this site: Encyclopedia of Alternative Energy & Sustainable Living Encyclopedia of History Transport Concepts & Designs (partner site) |