Which specific galaxy types numerically dominate the total galaxy count in Virgo?
Answer
Dwarf elliptical galaxies
While the Virgo Cluster contains a substantial number of galaxies—at least 1,300 are generally agreed upon, with estimates reaching 2,000 or more—the population that numerically dominates this count consists overwhelmingly of dwarf elliptical galaxies. These low surface brightness systems are challenging to detect, implying that the true total membership is likely much higher than current counts suggest. Although larger galaxies like M87 are more massive, the sheer quantity of these faint dwarf elliptical systems dictates the overall numerical composition of the cluster.
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