Which of the following is NOT true about the conjugation of the protist Paramecia?

• A. Conjugation increases genetic diversity in Paramecia populations.
• B. During conjugation, Paramecia temporarily join at the oral groove to exchange micronuclei.
• C. Conjugation in Paramecia involves the exchange of genetic material between two cells.
• D. Conjugation in Paramecia results in the production of offspring through binary fission.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand what conjugation in Paramecia entails. Conjugation is a form of sexual reproduction where two Paramecia come together to exchange genetic material, specifically micronuclei, which increases genetic diversity.
2. Step 2: Recognize that during conjugation, Paramecia temporarily join at a specific site, often the oral groove, to facilitate the exchange of micronuclei between the two cells.
3. Step 3: Note that conjugation involves the exchange of genetic material but does not directly produce offspring. Instead, it results in genetic recombination within the existing cells.
4. Step 4: Recall that binary fission is the asexual reproduction method by which Paramecia produce offspring, not conjugation. Conjugation prepares the cells for subsequent binary fission with new genetic combinations.
5. Step 5: Therefore, the statement that conjugation results in the production of offspring through binary fission is NOT true about conjugation itself, as conjugation and binary fission are distinct processes.