Second-hand Chloroplasts: Evolution of Cryptomonad Algae

Abstract

This chapter presents an overview of endosymbiosis, particularly the evolution of cryptomonad and the endosymbiosis between cryptomonad and red algae. The cryptomonad engulfs red algae and acquires photosynthetic capacity along with morphological and biochemical evidence. The endosymbiosis between cryptomonad and red algae developed from a predator-prey relationship is described. The studies to validate that cryptomonads and red algae are endosymbiont have been examined. The chapter discusses the close relationship between the nuclear and nucleomorph sequences of red algae and cryptomonad respectively. The conversion of phagotrophic protists to an autotrophic life-style by engulfing and reta..