Which of these statements about prokaryotes is correct?
A)Bacterial cells conjugate to mutually exchange genetic material.
B)Their genetic material is confined within a nuclear envelope.
C)They divide by binary fission, without mitosis or meiosis.
D)The persistence of bacteria throughout evolutionary time is due to their genetic homogeneity (i.e., sameness).
E)Genetic variation in bacteria is not known to occur, nor should it occur, because of their asexual mode of reproduction.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Prokaryotes, which include bacteria and archaea, divide by a process known as binary fission. This process involves replication of the genetic material followed by separation of the two copies into two daughter cells. Unlike eukaryotes, prokaryotes do not undergo mitosis or meiosis. Option A is incorrect because bacterial cells can exchange genetic material through horizontal gene transfer mechanisms such as conjugation, transformation, and transduction. Option B is incorrect because prokaryotes lack a nucleus and their genetic material is not enclosed within a nuclear envelope. Option D is incorrect because prokaryotes exhibit significant genetic diversity due to mechanisms such as mutation, gene transfer, and recombination. Option E is incorrect because while bacteria reproduce asexually, they can still undergo genetic variation through mutation and gene transfer mechanisms.

Which of These Statements About Prokaryotes Is Correct