#mini studies

transformation

this is the first of three techniques of genetic recombination. it occurs when a cell picks up a bit of dna from nearby and uses it to replace some of the cell's alleles. this can change its genotype (genetic code) and its phenotype (physical structure/appearance).

transduction

in order for transduction to be carried out, the prokaryotes need assistants: bacteriophages! bacteriophages are viruses that target bacteria specifically. these viruses can take dna from one host and inject it into another, thus enable genetic recombination. this is usually an accident, as carrying dna from a bacterium can inhibit a virus from carrying its own reproductive material.

conjugation

so... what's an endospore?

development of an endospore is a survival technique done by some bacteria. it is a tough group of cells formed around a copy of the bacterium's chromosome, preserving its dna.

how and why do they form?

endospores are formed when bacteria are in less than ideal environments, i.e. when they lack nutrients or water. the bacterium creates a copy of its chromosome, then surrounds it with cells. it then stops its metabolism and ensures there is no water in the endospore. finally, the cell lyses, which means it disintegrates. this releases the endospore out into the world.