What is conjugation in biology
Bacteria lacks true sexual reproduction. In such case it largely depends on errors in DNA replication (copying DNA) for variation. Still they are among the most versatile organisms when it comes to metabolism or habitat. Much of this is contributed by easy mechanisms of exchange of DNA- transformation, transduction and conjugation. Conjugation is a mechanism of DNA exchange where a bacterium can pass on circular pieces of DNA, called plasmids, to another bacterium by pipe like structures called the pilli or sex-pilli. Many a times the plasmid genes provide virulence( disease cauing ability) or survival capacities (antibiotic resistance) to the bacterium. This allows them to flourish.
FAQ
What is meant by conjugation in biology?
Conjugation is a pseudo-sexual mode of gene transfer in bacteria. They pass circular pieces of DNA called plasmids via a sex pili. These plasmids very often contain genes responsible for virulence and survival capabilities
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