With respect to F⁺ and F⁻ bacterial matings, answer the following questions: What is the genetic basis for a bacterium's being F⁺.

Key Concepts

F Plasmid

The F plasmid, or fertility plasmid, is a circular piece of DNA found in some bacteria that carries genes necessary for the formation of sex pili and the process of conjugation. Bacteria containing the F plasmid are termed F⁺, allowing them to transfer genetic material to F⁻ bacteria during mating. This transfer can lead to genetic diversity and the spread of traits such as antibiotic resistance.

Conjugation

Conjugation is a form of horizontal gene transfer in bacteria, where genetic material is transferred from one bacterium to another through direct contact. This process typically involves the formation of a pilus by the F⁺ bacterium, which connects to the F⁻ bacterium, allowing the transfer of the F plasmid and other genetic material. Conjugation is a key mechanism for genetic variation in bacterial populations.

Hfr Strains

Hfr (high frequency of recombination) strains are bacteria in which the F plasmid is integrated into the bacterial chromosome. This integration allows for the transfer of chromosomal genes along with the F plasmid during conjugation, leading to more extensive genetic recombination. Understanding Hfr strains is crucial for studying gene mapping and the genetic exchange processes in bacteria.