Evolutionary Advantage of Bacterial Reproductive Strategies

Very Hard Biology Microbiology

A team of microbiologists is studying a newly discovered bacterium, which exhibits unique characteristics during its reproductive cycle. They discover that this bacterium can undergo both binary fission and a specialized form of conjugation that incorporates a genetic element from neighboring organisms. This genetic element is known to enhance survival under stressful environmental conditions. The researchers are trying to determine the evolutionary significance of this dual reproductive strategy.

Which of the following concepts best explains the primary evolutionary advantage of this bacterium's ability to perform both binary fission and conjugation?

Binary fission allows for rapid population growth, whereas conjugation enhances genetic diversity.

Conjugation leads to asexual reproduction, while binary fission allows for genetic exchange.

Both reproductive methods are equally beneficial but function independently of environmental conditions.

Binary fission increases mutation rates, while conjugation decreases them.

Hint

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