How has the role of horizontal gene transfer (HGT) in evolution changed over time?
A) Early life-forms had modular genomes for which HGT played a large role in adaptation. This role has decreased over time.
B) Early life-forms had modular genomes for which HGT played a large role in adaptation. This role has increased over time.
C) Early life-forms were fixed entities, and the only way to adapt was through HGT. HGT no longer occurs.
D) HGT was irrelevant for early life-forms. HGT is a more recent phenomenon and is important for current adaptations.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Early life-forms had modular genomes that allowed for easy incorporation of new genes via HGT, which played a significant role in adaptation. As genomes became more complex and specialized, HGT's role decreased.

How Has the Role of Horizontal Gene Transfer (HGT) in Evolution