Question

Match the three mechanisms of bacterial recombination with their descriptions:

a. two cells become physically connected by the pilus, through which genes can move from donor to recipient
b. a virus picks up bacterial genes as it reproduces in the cell, then moves those genes into a recipient cell
c. a competent cell picks up fragments of dna from the surrounding environment

1. conjugation
2. transformation
3.transduction

Answer 1

Bacterial recombination occurs through three mechanisms: transformation, where a cell picks up DNA from the environment; transduction, where a virus transfers genes between bacteria; and conjugation, where genes move between connected cells through a pilus.

Step-by-step explanation:

The three mechanisms of bacterial recombination and their descriptions are:

1. Transformation: A competent cell picks up fragments of DNA from the surrounding environment.
2. Transduction: A virus picks up bacterial genes as it reproduces in the cell, then moves those genes into a recipient cell.
3. Conjugation: Two cells become physically connected by the pilus, through which genes can move from donor to recipient.

These mechanisms allow bacteria to exchange genetic material and increase their genetic variability, which is crucial for adaptation and survival in changing environments. Conjugation involves the direct transfer of DNA between two bacterial cells that are connected by a pilus. In the process of transformation, bacterial cells can pick up DNA from their surroundings which may include DNA shed by other bacteria. Transduction occurs when a bacteriophage transfers bacterial genes as part of its life cycle. These processes are essential for the genetic diversity and evolution of bacterial species.