Final answer:
Conjugation in prokaryotes is a form of genetic transfer where DNA is moved directly from one cell to another using a structure called the F pilus, contributing to genetic variation and important applications in biotechnology.
Step-by-step explanation:
Conjugation is a process in prokaryotes like bacteria, where genetic material is moved from one cell to another. This is done through a structure known as an F pilus or sex pilus. The F pilus attaches the donor cell to the recipient cell, allowing their membranes to merge and facilitating the transfer of genetic material, usually a plasmid. This method of horizontal gene transfer is particularly important as it helps increase genetic variation among bacteria, which can be advantageous in adapting to new environments or becoming resistant to antibiotics.
There are other forms of genetic transfer in prokaryotes, such as transformation, where bacteria take up DNA from their environment, and transduction, where DNA is transferred via bacteriophages. Conjugation stands out as it entails direct contact and transfer between cells. In biotechnology, the process of conjugation is exploited to create bacterial cells carrying novel genes, which has numerous applications in medicine, agriculture, and industry.