All three domains (Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya) follow the same genetic code. Therefore, which of the following statements would most likely be correct?
A) The genetic code evolved three times.
B) The genetic code evolved before DNA replaced RNA as the unit of genetic information.
C) There were no mutations following the evolution of the genetic code.
D) The genetic code evolved before the different domains diverged.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The fact that all three domains (Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya) follow the same genetic code suggests that the genetic code evolved before the different domains diverged. It is unlikely that the genetic code evolved three separate times or that there were no mutations following its evolution. Additionally, the evolution of the genetic code likely occurred after the transition from RNA to DNA as the unit of genetic information.

All Three Domains (Bacteria, Archaea, and Eukarya) Follow the Same