Which group of prokaryotes was responsible for converting Earth's early atmosphere from an anaerobic to an aerobic environment?
A) Proteobacteria
B) Halophiles
C) Cyanobacteria
D) Spirochetes
E) Actinobacteria

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cyanobacteria were the first oxygenic photosynthetic bacteria that produced oxygen through photosynthesis, which ultimately led to the formation of an aerobic atmosphere. This process is known as the Great Oxygenation Event, and it occurred about 2.4 billion years ago. Thus, Cyanobacteria converted Earth's early atmosphere from an anaerobic to an aerobic environment.

Which Group of Prokaryotes Was Responsible for Converting Earth's Early