Pili in bacteria are used for

Options

A. Locomotion
B. Respiration
C. Conjugation
D. Transformation

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Pili**: Pili are hair-like structures found on the surface of bacteria. They are primarily composed of a protein called pilin.

2. **Types of Pili**: There are two main types of pili:
- **Sex Pili**: These are longer and are involved in the process of conjugation.
- **Fimbrae**: These are shorter and are used for adhesion to surfaces.

3. **Function of Pili**: The primary function of pili in bacteria includes:
- **Conjugation**: This is a process where genetic material is exchanged between bacterial cells. The sex pili facilitate this exchange by connecting two bacterial cells.
- **Adhesion**: Fimbrae help bacteria adhere to surfaces, which is crucial for colonization and infection.

4. **Analyzing the Options**: The question provides four options: locomotion, respiration, conjugation, or transformation. Based on the functions of pili:
- **Locomotion**: Not primarily associated with pili.
- **Respiration**: Not related to pili.
- **Conjugation**: Correct, as pili are used for the exchange of genetic material.
- **Transformation**: This refers to the uptake of DNA from the environment, which is not directly related to pili.

5. **Conclusion**: Therefore, the correct answer to the question is that pili in bacteria are used for **conjugation**.