Which of the following is one of the main weaknesses of the proposed classification scheme in which all eukaryotes are divided into four supergroups?

• A. It does not account for "amitochondriate" protists.
• B. It does not take into account the importance of endosymbiosis.
• C. It does not explain the extra membranes found in some plastids.
• D. It postulates that photosynthetic protists arose by way of endosymbiosis.
• E. It shows all four supergroups diverging simultaneously from a common ancestor.

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the context: The problem is about a classification scheme for eukaryotes, which are organisms with complex cells. The scheme divides eukaryotes into four supergroups.
2. Identify the options: The problem provides several potential weaknesses of this classification scheme. Each option highlights a different aspect of biological classification.
3. Focus on the correct answer: The correct answer is that the classification scheme shows all four supergroups diverging simultaneously from a common ancestor.
4. Analyze why this is a weakness: In evolutionary biology, it is unlikely for multiple groups to diverge simultaneously from a common ancestor. This suggests a lack of resolution in the evolutionary tree, which can be seen as a weakness because it does not accurately reflect the evolutionary relationships.
5. Consider the implications: This weakness implies that the classification scheme may oversimplify the evolutionary history of eukaryotes, potentially overlooking important evolutionary events and relationships.