What is the first step in binary fission?

Options

A. Growth of bud
B. Stretching of nucleus
C. Dissolution of cell wall
D. Enlargement of the organism

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Binary Fission**:
- Binary fission is a type of asexual reproduction where an organism divides into two identical daughter cells. It does not involve gametes or fertilization.

2. **Identifying the Organism**:
- An example of an organism that undergoes binary fission is amoeba. This process typically occurs under favorable conditions.

3. **First Step - DNA Replication**:
- The first step in binary fission is the replication of the organism's DNA. This means that the genetic material is duplicated to ensure that both daughter cells will have the same genetic information.

4. **Nuclear Elongation**:
- After DNA replication, the nucleus of the amoeba begins to elongate. This is known as nuclear elongation, where the nucleus stretches to prepare for division.

5. **Cytoplasmic Division**:
- Following nuclear elongation, the cytoplasm starts to constrict, leading to the division of the cell into two separate daughter cells. This process is called cytokinesis.

6. **Formation of Daughter Cells**:
- Finally, two daughter amoebas are formed, which are smaller in size compared to the parent amoeba.