EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -Bacteria and archaea reproduce asexually by splitting one cell into two equal halves in a process called binary fission (Figure 1). Before a cell divides, it must first replicate the genome so that each daughter cell gets a copy of the DNA instruction manual.

Detailed explanation-2: -Most bacteria rely on binary fission for propagation. Conceptually this is a simple process; a cell just needs to grow to twice its starting size and then split in two.

Detailed explanation-3: -Only bacteria and archaea reproduce primarily by binary fission. Bacteria are sexually unable, although they are capable of transferring genetic information. Two bacteria come into contact through a pilus and exchange genetic material (a bacterial structure). This is known as conjugation.

Detailed explanation-4: -In fact, viruses not reproducing themselves is one of the main reasons viruses are not strictly considered living organisms. However, if their reproduction must be classified as sexual or asexual, viruses definitely reproduce asexually. There is no sex involved, so it cannot be sexual reproduction.

Detailed explanation-5: -Transformation. Transduction. Conjugation.