Mechanisms of gene transfer between bacteria include which of the following?

• A. Binary fission
• B. Mitosis
• C. Conjugation
• D. Meiosis

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that gene transfer in bacteria is a process by which genetic material is exchanged between bacterial cells, leading to genetic variation.
2. Recognize that binary fission is a method of asexual reproduction in bacteria, where a single cell divides into two identical daughter cells, and does not involve gene transfer.
3. Identify that mitosis and meiosis are processes of cell division in eukaryotic organisms, not typically involved in bacterial gene transfer.
4. Learn that conjugation is a mechanism of horizontal gene transfer in bacteria, where genetic material is transferred from one bacterium to another through direct contact, often involving a pilus.
5. Conclude that among the options provided, conjugation is the correct mechanism of gene transfer between bacteria, as it allows for the exchange of genetic material between cells.