3 Loopbackus

Name: Loopbackus
Ancestor: Protocapsulus
Description: A small genomic sequence that if it comes into contact with protocapsulus, will embed itself into protocapsulus's genome. When activated protocapsulus will make inverse copies of the Loopbackus gene sequence and the protective accessory proteins that will partially encapsulate the loopbackus sequence copy, then a mechanism at the end of the original inserted loopbackus gene sequence material will cause protocapsulus to go back to the beginning of the inserted gene sequence material. The protocapsulus gets trapped in a loop of constructing more Loopbackus inverse copies (which are translated into "mature" functional copies within the protocapsulus's cellular environment) until all energy and resources have been exhausted. The loopbackus fragments diffuse into the surrounding waters to attach to membrane habitats of uninfected protocapsulus.
Host's Food: Environmental nucleotides, small genomic and peptic fragments.
Host's Metabolism: Chemolithotrophic
Reproduction: Contact with protocapsulus will usually result in acceptance and integration into protocapsulus genome. Protocapsulus produces loopbackus gene fragments with the assemblage abilities and resources available to it indefinitely (until it degrades). Produces them in sufficient quantity that at least a few will contact another uninfected protocapsulus ribozome.
Optimal Ambient Temperature: 210°C
Regions: Deep hydrothermal vent

Genetic Ancestor(s)

• 2 Protocapsulus

Genetic Descendants

• 16 Crystavirus

Temporal Range: Mid Primordial Eon - ???
Year 1,150,000,000 - Year ???