Protist conjugation

Definition

Protist conjugation is a sexual reproduction process where two protists exchange genetic material through direct contact. This process enhances genetic diversity within the population.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Protist conjugation typically occurs in ciliates, such as Paramecium.
2. During conjugation, two protists align side by side and form a cytoplasmic bridge between them.
3. Micronuclei undergo meiosis followed by mitosis during conjugation to produce haploid nuclei that are exchanged between the protists.
4. Conjugation does not result in an increase in the number of individuals but results in genetic recombination.
5. Post-conjugation, the micronuclei fusion forms a diploid zygote nucleus which then undergoes mitotic divisions.

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Related terms

Ciliate: A type of protozoan characterized by hair-like organelles called cilia used for movement and feeding.

Meiosis:

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in four daughter cells.

Micronucleus: A small nucleus involved primarily in reproductive and genetic processes in some unicellular organisms.