reproduction Flashcards
How do bacteria reproduce?
asexually
What is the method of reproduction for bacteria called?
Binary fission
Explain how bacteria reproduce in steps
- When a bacterial cell gets to a certain size the DNA strand copies itself. There are now two identical strands of DNA.
- The cell elongates with a strand of DNA attached to each end.
- The cell splits into two similar-sized cells.
Are the offspring of bacteria genetically identical?
They are genetically identical
How do bacteria evolve so quickly?
They evolve very fast due to the speed at which new mutations can spread within the rapidly growing bacteria.
What does the short life cycle of bacteria mean?
the short life cycles of bacteria mean that any new variation produced by a mutation can be passed on very quickly to a large number of bacteria.
how do bacteria evolve resistance to new antibiotics.
Since they have a short life cycle, mutations spread quickly within the rapidly growing bacteria.
How do bacteria withstand harsh conditions?
Some bacteria can withstand harsh and unfavourable conditions by producing endospores.
When do endospores form?
Endospores form when the bacterial chromosome replicates, with one of the new strands becoming enclosed by a tough-walled endospore formed inside the parent cell.
The parent cell then breaks down and the endospore can remain dormant for a long time.
What happens when conditions become suitable for endospores?
The endospore absorbs water and the tough wall breaks down. The chromosome is copied and a normal bacterium forms again. This bacterium can then reproduce by binary fission.
Why are endospores difficult to kill?
They can withstand lack of food and water, high temperatures and most poisons. They are normally not even killed by boiling water.
