Sexual reproduction by adopting primitive type of DNA transfer from one bacterium to another by a virus was first discovered by :

Options

A. F. Griffith
B. Lederberg and Tatum
C. Zinder and Lederberg
D. Lederverg and Hay

Answer

To solve the question regarding the discovery of sexual reproduction through primitive DNA transfer from one bacterium to another by a virus, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Process**: The question refers to a process known as transduction, which is a method of genetic transfer in bacteria facilitated by viruses (bacteriophages).

2. **Identify Key Components**: In transduction, a bacteriophage (a virus that infects bacteria) transfers genetic material from one bacterium to another. This process involves the bacteriophage injecting DNA into a host bacterium.

3. **Differentiate from Other Processes**: It's important to distinguish transduction from other forms of genetic transfer such as transformation (uptake of naked DNA) and conjugation (direct transfer of DNA through a sex pilus).

4. **Historical Context**: The question asks who first discovered this process. The key figures in the discovery of transduction include scientists who studied the genetic material transfer in bacteria.

5. **Evaluate the Options**:
- **F Griffith**: Known for his work on transformation, not transduction.
- **Lagerberg and Tottenham**: Lagerberg is associated with transduction, but Tottenham is not.
- **Lagerberg and Hay**: Hay is not involved in this discovery.
- **Zinger and Lagerberg**: This combination is correct as both contributed to the understanding of transduction.

6. **Conclusion**: The correct answer to the question is **Zinger and Lagerberg**, as they were the scientists who first described the process of transduction in bacteria.

### Final Answer:
Sexual reproduction by adopting a primitive type of DNA transfer from one bacterium to another by a virus was first discovered by **Zinger and Lagerberg**.