In which bacterial reproduction phage is required

Options

A. Conjugation
B. Transformation
C. Binary fission
D. Transsduction.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Bacterial Reproduction Methods**: Bacteria can reproduce and exchange genetic material through several methods, including binary fission, conjugation, transformation, and transduction.

2. **Identifying the Methods**:
- **Binary Fission**: This is the most common method of bacterial reproduction where a single bacterial cell divides into two identical daughter cells. No phage is involved.
- **Conjugation**: This is a process where two bacterial cells connect and transfer genetic material through a pilus. This method does not require a phage.
- **Transformation**: In this process, bacteria take up free DNA from their environment. Again, no phage is involved.
- **Transduction**: This is a method of horizontal gene transfer where a bacteriophage (a virus that infects bacteria) transfers genetic material from one bacterium to another.

3. **Focus on Transduction**: Since transduction specifically involves the use of a bacteriophage to transfer genetic material, it is the only method listed that requires a phage.

4. **Conclusion**: The correct answer to the question is that phage is required in the process of **transduction**.

**Final Answer**: Transduction (Option 4).

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