The type of progenitor cell that erythrocytes develop from is hematopoietic stem cells.
Explanation:
1. Hematopoietic stem cells are the precursor cells that give rise to all blood cell types, including erythrocytes (red blood cells).
2. These stem cells have the ability to differentiate into various specialized cells found in the blood, such as red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
3. Erythrocytes, specifically, develop from hematopoietic stem cells through a process known as erythropoiesis.
4. During erythropoiesis, hematopoietic stem cells differentiate into erythroblasts, which further mature into reticulocytes and finally become mature red blood cells (erythrocytes).
5. Therefore, the correct answer is c. hematopoietic stem cells as they are the origin of erythrocytes in the blood.
