Gense representing traits of antibiotic resistance occur in bacteria over

Options

A. Nucleoid
B. Plasmid
C. Mesosome
D. Both B and C

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question:**
The question asks where genes that represent traits of antibiotic resistance occur in bacteria. This requires knowledge of bacterial genetics and the structures involved.

2. **Identifying Key Terms:**
- **Antibiotic Resistance:** This refers to the ability of bacteria to survive and grow in the presence of antibiotics that would normally kill them or inhibit their growth.
- **Genes:** These are segments of DNA that code for specific traits, including antibiotic resistance.
- **Plasmids:** These are small, circular pieces of DNA found in bacteria that are separate from chromosomal DNA and can carry genes, including those for antibiotic resistance.

3. **Analyzing the Options:**
The options provided are:
- A) Nucleoid
- B) Plasmid
- C) Mesosome
- D) Both B and C

4. **Evaluating Each Option:**
- **A) Nucleoid:** This is the region in prokaryotic cells where the main DNA is located. While it contains genetic material, it is not specifically where antibiotic resistance genes are typically found.
- **B) Plasmid:** Plasmids are known to carry genes that confer antibiotic resistance. They can replicate independently of chromosomal DNA and can be transferred between bacteria, making them a key factor in the spread of resistance.
- **C) Mesosome:** Mesosomes are infoldings of the plasma membrane in bacteria and do not contain genetic material or genes for antibiotic resistance.
- **D) Both B and C:** Since C is incorrect, this option cannot be correct.

5. **Conclusion:**
The correct answer is **B) Plasmid**. Genes representing traits of antibiotic resistance occur in bacteria primarily over plasmids.

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