Refer to the figure. According to these data, evidence that mimiviruses are derived from reduced parasitic symbionts includes the
A) size and composition of the mimivirus genome relative to other organisms.
B) the similarities between the mimivirus and free-living bacteria.
C) types of genes found in the mimivirus genome.
D) size of the mimivirus alone.
E) fact that mimiviruses have a double-stranded DNA genome.

Question

Refer to the figure.  According to these data, evidence that mimiviruses are derived from reduced parasitic symbionts includes the
A) size and composition of the mimivirus genome relative to other organisms. 
B) the similarities between the mimivirus and free-living bacteria. 
C) types of genes found in the mimivirus genome. 
D) size of the mimivirus alone. 
E) fact that mimiviruses have a double-stranded DNA genome.

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The size and composition of the mimivirus genome, which is larger and more complex than typical viruses, suggests that it has evolved from a reduced parasitic symbiont that gradually acquired more genes through lateral transfer from its host. This is supported by the presence of numerous genes involved in metabolic pathways and cellular processes that are typically absent from viruses. The other options do not provide evidence for mimiviruses being derived from reduced parasitic symbionts.

Refer to the Figure