Question

Although all bacterial cells are clones, bacterial populations accumulate diversity through all of the following EXCEPT:

1.Conjugation using an F plasmid or similar mechanism

2,Mistakes in DNA replication (mutations)

3.Transformation of cells with environmental DNA

4.Novel forms of amino acids

Answer 1

Ans) The correct answer is "4".

Genetic diversity can be induced by Conjugation process between Hfr and F plasmid and new genes or genetic material can be transferred between them through pilus (bridge like).

Mutations can also lead to genetic diversity by accumulation of mutations over the lifespan which will eventually lead to evolution.

Transformation is the process of uptake of foreign DNA inside the cells from the outside which inturn can induce genetic diversity. Cell wall can be perforated for the uptake of foreign DNA by different methods like sonication,electroporation,heat shock etc.