Asexual prokaryotes usually pass nearly identical genetic material to their offspring, yet bacterial populations can still become genetically diverse. This lesson introduces vertical and horizontal gene transfer and explains why horizontal transfer matters.
Vertical gene transfer is the transmission of genetic information from parent to offspring across generations. It is the primary mode of genetic transmission in all cells. In asexual reproduction, offspring generally inherit a nearly identical copy of the parent's genetic material.
All flashcards
What is vertical gene transfer?
The transmission of genetic information from a parent organism to its offspring across generations.
What is horizontal gene transfer?
The movement of genetic material between organisms within the same generation, rather than through parent-to-offspring inheritance.
Which three processes are the main forms of HGT in prokaryotes?
Transformation, transduction, and conjugation.
Why is genetic variation useful to a population?
Variation means individuals may differ in their traits; some differences can help organisms survive and reproduce when conditions change.
What are important sources of prokaryotic genetic variation?
Mutation and horizontal gene transfer are important sources of genetic variation in prokaryotes.
Quiz questions
What makes a prokaryotic cell naturally competent?Answer: It can actively bind and take up environmental DNA.
What happens during generalized transduction?Answer: A phage accidentally packages bacterial chromosomal DNA, potentially from any region.
Which statement describes an F+ bacterial cell?Answer: It contains the F plasmid and can act as a conjugation donor.
Why can an Hfr cell transfer bacterial chromosomal DNA during conjugation?Answer: Its F plasmid is integrated into the bacterial chromosome.
What genes are carried by an R plasmid?Answer: Genes that confer antimicrobial resistance.
Based on Microbiology by Nina Parker, Mark Schneegurt, Anh-Hue Thi Tu, Philip Lister, Brian M. Forster (OpenStax), licensed CC BY 4.0. Adapted into a summary, flashcards and quizzes.