Chapter 20, Problem 1MC

The name of the process by which DNA is transferred from one prokaryote to another via a cytoplasmic bridge is

a. conjugation.

b. prokaryotic fission.

c. meiosis.

d. bioremediation.

Summary Introduction

Introduction:

The prokaryotes reproduce asexually, which means the process of genetic recombination is not possible in these organisms. However, it is noted that the transfer of genetic material from one prokaryote to another is possible in certain species. This process involves the formation of a cytoplasmic bridge.

Answer to Problem 1MC

Correct answer:

Conjugation is the process, by which deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is transferred from one prokaryote to another via a cytoplasmic bridge.

Explanation of Solution

Explanation for the correct answer:

Option (a) is given that conjugation is the process, by which DNA is transferred from one prokaryote to another. DNA is the genetic material found in the prokaryotes. The prokaryotes undergo asexual reproduction. Thus, genetic recombination is not possible in the prokaryotes. To overcome this problem, the prokaryotes undergo a process where they can transfer the genetic material from other prokaryotes.

In this process, the plasma membranes of two prokaryotes fuse temporarily. This structure is known as the cytoplasmic bridge. The prokaryotes exchange the genetic material via this structure. It leads to the new combination of genetic material, which helps bacteria to survive under different conditions. This process is known as conjugation. Hence, option (a) is correct.

Explanation for incorrect answers:

Option (b) is given that in prokaryotes, DNA is transferred by the process known as prokaryotic fission. Prokaryotic fission is the process, by which prokaryotes reproduce asexually. However, there is no transfer of the genetic material from one prokaryote to another in this process. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (c) is given that in prokaryotes, DNA is transferred by the process known as meiosis. Meiosis is a cell division process, in which the daughter cells contain half the number of chromosomes as compared to the parent cell. This process is not involved in the transfer of the genetic material from one prokaryote to another. So, it is an incorrect option.

Option (d) is given that in prokaryotes, DNA is transferred by the process known as bioremediation. Bioremediation refers to manipulating the environmental conditions to stimulate the breakdown of the pollutants by living organisms. This process does not involve the transfer of the genetic material from one prokaryote to another. So, it is an incorrect option.

Hence, options (b), (c), and (d) are incorrect.

Conclusion

Therefore, it can be concluded that in the conjugation process, prokaryotes transfer the genetic material via a cytoplasmic bridge from one prokaryote to another.