Transfer of DNA from a donor to a recipient cell by a bacteriophage.
a. Conjugation
b. Transcription
c. Transduction
d. Transformation
e. Translation

Verified step by step guidance

1. Read the definition carefully: 'Transfer of DNA from a donor to a recipient cell by a bacteriophage.'
2. Recall the definitions of each term: conjugation involves direct cell-to-cell contact; transcription is the process of making RNA from DNA; transduction involves transfer of DNA via a bacteriophage; transformation is uptake of free DNA from the environment; translation is the synthesis of protein from mRNA.
3. Identify the key phrase 'by a bacteriophage' which indicates the involvement of a virus that infects bacteria.
4. Match this key phrase to the term that specifically describes DNA transfer mediated by bacteriophages, which is 'transduction'.
5. Confirm that the other options do not involve bacteriophages to ensure the correct match.

Key Concepts

Transduction

Transduction is the process by which bacterial DNA is transferred from one bacterium to another via a bacteriophage (a virus that infects bacteria). This mechanism allows genetic material to move between cells without direct contact, contributing to genetic diversity.

Bacteriophage Role in Gene Transfer

Bacteriophages can accidentally package host bacterial DNA during replication and inject it into another bacterium. This viral-mediated gene transfer is crucial for horizontal gene transfer and can spread traits like antibiotic resistance.

Horizontal Gene Transfer Mechanisms

Horizontal gene transfer includes conjugation, transformation, and transduction, which enable bacteria to exchange genetic material. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for grasping how bacteria adapt and evolve rapidly in various environments.