Final answer:
Key cellular features that enabled species to thrive on early Earth include sexual reproduction, cellular specialization, autotrophic life forms capable of energy capture without oxygen, and prokaryotes adapted to high temperatures and harsh conditions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Several key cellular features contributed to the success of species on early Earth. One significant adaptation was sexual reproduction, which created a variety of offspring, enhancing survival chances during environmental changes and accelerating evolution. The emergence of cellular specialization within colonies led to more efficient cells that eventually formed multicellular organisms. Moreover, the ability of the first cells to thrive in harsh conditions, such as high temperatures and without oxygen, was critical. Autotrophic life forms evolved to create organic molecules without depleting environmental nutrients excessively, preventing early extinction.
The Prokaryotes, being the first inhabitants of Earth, were remarkably adapted to its volatile early environment, which included a lack of molecular oxygen, intense solar radiation, and frequent volcanic activities. These conditions may have fostered the development of life in protected areas such as the deep ocean. Additionally, prokaryotes could have given life a better chance of enduring the relentless energy input from volcanos and lightening.