How do you define conjugation within the bacteria kingdom?
How do you define conjugation within the bacteria kingdom?
Answered
Conjugation in the bacterial kingdom is defined as the process through which one bacterial cell transfers genetic material to another through direct physical contact. This transfer is typically facilitated by the formation of a sex pilus, a structure that connects the donor and recipient cells. Conjugation primarily involves the transfer of plasmids—small, circular pieces of DNA that are separate from the bacterial chromosome—but can also involve chromosomal DNA. The donor cell usually has an F-factor or other conjugative plasmid that provides the genetic instructions for pilus formation and the transfer process. Conjugation is a form of horizontal gene transfer that plays a crucial role in the spread of traits like antibiotic resistance within bacterial populations.
BNO Team