Which of the following best describes the role of the pilus during bacterial conjugation?

• A. It is responsible for bacterial motility by rotating like a flagellum.
• B. It acts as a protective barrier against antibiotics.
• C. It facilitates the transfer of genetic material between bacterial cells.
• D. It enables bacteria to perform photosynthesis.

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that bacterial conjugation is a process where genetic material is transferred from one bacterial cell to another.
2. Recognize that the pilus, specifically the sex pilus or conjugative pilus, is a structure involved in this process.
3. Recall that the pilus forms a physical connection between two bacterial cells, allowing the transfer of DNA, usually plasmids.
4. Note that the pilus does not function in motility like a flagellum, nor does it act as a protective barrier or enable photosynthesis.
5. Conclude that the primary role of the pilus during bacterial conjugation is to facilitate the transfer of genetic material between bacterial cells.