Kingdom Monera (prokaryotes) — nutritional diversity as a driver of success Members of Monera (prokaryotes) obtain energy through multiple modes. Which of the following correctly lists valid energy acquisition strategies found among prokaryotes?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: All of the above

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Prokaryotes flourish in nearly every environment due to metabolic versatility. They exploit diverse energy sources and electron donors/acceptors, enabling survival from sunlit surfaces to deep-sea vents. Recognizing these trophic categories clarifies how microbial communities shape biogeochemical cycles.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Energy can be captured from light (photo-) or chemical reactions (chemo-).
  • Carbon sources can be CO2 (auto-) or organic compounds (hetero-).
  • Prokaryotes occupy all combinations except rare or constrained ones in certain lineages.


Concept / Approach:
Photoautotrophs (for example, cyanobacteria) use light to fix CO2. Photoheterotrophs use light for energy but rely on organic carbon (some purple nonsulfur bacteria). Chemoheterotrophs oxidize organic molecules for both energy and carbon (many pathogens and decomposers). There are also chemoautotrophs that oxidize inorganic compounds (for example, nitrifiers), highlighting prokaryotic breadth.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Map each listed term to known prokaryotic groups.Confirm that all three modes are documented among bacteria and archaea.Select the inclusive option acknowledging all valid strategies.


Verification / Alternative check:
Ecology and microbiology references document phototrophic and chemotrophic prokaryotes across marine, soil, and extremophile niches.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • A/B/C: Each is true individually but incomplete.
  • E: Incorrect; prokaryotes are not restricted to a single trophic mode.


Common Pitfalls:
Assuming photoheterotrophy is exclusive to eukaryotes; many bacteria perform it. Also, neglecting the independent choice of energy source and carbon source in trophic terms.


Final Answer:
All of the above

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