How does cell division commonly occur in bacteria and protozoa?a)By u...
Cell division in bacteria and protozoa commonly occurs by splitting into two equal halves. This process, known as binary fission, results in the formation of two identical daughter cells. Binary fission is a rapid and efficient way for these unicellular organisms to reproduce asexually.
How does cell division commonly occur in bacteria and protozoa?a)By u...
Cell Division in Bacteria
Bacteria typically reproduce through a process called binary fission. This method of division is efficient and allows for rapid population growth under favorable conditions.
Key Features of Binary Fission:
- Splitting into Two Equal Halves: In binary fission, the bacterial cell elongates, and the DNA replicates. The cell then divides into two nearly equal halves, each containing a copy of the original DNA. This is why option 'C' is the correct choice.
- Simple Process: The process consists of several stages: DNA replication, cell elongation, septum formation, and division into two daughter cells.
- Rapid Division: Under optimal conditions, bacteria can divide every 20 minutes, making binary fission an effective reproductive strategy.
Cell Division in Protozoa
Protozoa, which are single-celled eukaryotic organisms, also reproduce asexually through various methods, including binary fission, budding, or multiple fission.
Key Features of Protozoan Division:
- Binary Fission: Many protozoa, like bacteria, divide through binary fission, where one cell splits into two equal halves, similar to bacterial division.
- Multiple Fission: Some protozoa can undergo multiple fission, where a single cell divides into several daughter cells simultaneously. This is distinct from binary fission but does not contradict the notion of equal division, as multiple fission can lead to equal-sized daughter cells.
- Variation in Methods: Depending on species and environmental conditions, protozoa may also reproduce through budding or sporulation, but binary fission remains a primary method.
In summary, both bacteria and certain protozoa commonly divide by splitting into two equal halves, which is why option 'C' accurately describes their cell division process.