Which of the following statements about conjugation is false?
i. Conjugation is a form of horizontal gene transfer.
ii. Conjugation forms a bridge between two bacterial cells called a plasmid.
iii. Conjugation involves the transfer of genetic information via bacteriophages.

• A. i only.
• B. ii only.
• C. iii only.
• D. i and ii only.
• E. ii and iii only.
• F. i and iii only.

Answer: (E)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of conjugation: Conjugation is a process in bacteria where genetic material is transferred from one bacterial cell to another through direct contact.
2. Identify the false statements: Review each statement to determine its accuracy based on the definition of conjugation.
3. Evaluate statement ii: Conjugation involves the formation of a bridge called a pilus, not a plasmid. A plasmid is a small DNA molecule within a cell that is physically separated from chromosomal DNA and can replicate independently.
4. Evaluate statement iii: Conjugation does not involve bacteriophages. Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria, and their involvement is characteristic of transduction, not conjugation.
5. Conclude which statements are false: Based on the evaluations, statements ii and iii are false because they incorrectly describe the process of conjugation.