Small-subunit ribosomal RNA sequence from Naegleria gruberi supports the polyphyletic origin of amoebas.

Abstract

We have sequenced the small-subunit ribosomal RNA gene of the amoebo-flagellate protozoan Naegleria gruberi. Comparison of this sequence with the rRNA sequences of other eukaryotes resulted in a phylogenetic tree that supports the suggested polyphyletic origin of amoebas and suggests a flagellate ancestry for Naegleria.