Question

question 6 of 10
the bacteria in a colony are unable to perform conjugation. how would this
hurt the bacterial colonys chance for survival?
a. the bacteria would not be able to use binary fission.
b. the bacteria in the colony would be genetically too similar.
c. the bacteria would be forced to reproduce sexually.
d. the bacteria in the colony would lose their genetic material.

Explanation:

Conjugation allows bacteria to exchange genetic material. Without it, genetic diversity is reduced. Binary fission (A) is a separate asexual reproduction method. Bacteria don't reproduce sexually (C). They don't lose genetic material (D). Lack of conjugation leads to less genetic variation (more similarity), which can be bad for survival as it limits adaptability to changing environments.

Answer:

B. The bacteria in the colony would be genetically too similar.