Photosynthesis spread through eukaryotes by repeated endosymbioses involving eukaryotic algae.

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Photosynthesis is thought to have originated in prokaryotes, and was eventually acquired by eukaryotes through multiple endosymbiotic events with photosynthetic prokaryotes (such as cyanobacteria). These endosymbiotic events likely involved eukaryotes engulfing photosynthetic prokaryotes and eventually forming a stable, symbiotic relationship. Over time, these endosymbiotic relationships gave rise to diverse groups of photosynthetic eukaryotes, including green algae, red algae, brown algae, and the various groups of algae that eventually gave rise to land plants.

Photosynthesis Spread Through Eukaryotes by Repeated Endosymbioses Involving Eukaryotic Algae