NEET BIOLOGY

GENETICS AND EVOLUTION

EVOLUTION

Question [CLICK ON ANY CHOICE TO KNOW THE RIGHT ANSWER]
What is one reason why bacteria have evolved so quickly?
A
They reproduce quickly
B
There is not selection pressure
C
They can reproduce sexually
D
Their DNA does not mature
Explanation: 

Detailed explanation-1: -Bacterial species evolve quickly both because their huge populations offer many opportunities for mutations, and because they readily exchange genetic information, even between species. Some of this genetic heterogeneity influences drug sensitivity or resistance, and thereby provides fodder for Darwinian selection.

Detailed explanation-2: -Bacteria have two advantages that allow them to evolve quickly. One is that they grow really fast. The other is that they can share DNA with each other, even between species. Let’s take a look at how these features help speed up evolution.

Detailed explanation-3: -Bacteria can evolve quickly because they reproduce at a fast rate. Mutations of bacteria produce new strains. Some bacteria might become resistant to certain antibiotics, such as penicillin, and cannot be destroyed by the antibiotic. The evolution of the bacteria is an example of natural selection .

Detailed explanation-4: -[3] Since bacteria are haploid for the majority of their genes and have short generation turnover, phenotypic variation due to point mutations can occur relatively quickly. Results of mutations can produce changes in structural or colony characteristics or loss in sensitivity to antibiotics.

Detailed explanation-5: -Biological Mutations Since bacteria are extremely numerous, random mutation of bacterial DNA generates a wide variety of genetic changes. Through mutation and selection, bacteria can develop defense mechanisms against antibiotics.

There is 1 question to complete.