Bacterial conjugation

Drag each phrase into the appropriate bin depending on whether it applies to an F + cell, an Hfr cell, or an F - cell. (Remember that we are only considering conjugation involving the F factor here, and not other mechanisms for transferring genetic material.)

F + cell:

1) carries the F factor in a plasmidmay

2) may donate a plasmid to another cell

Hfr cell:

1) carries the F factor in its circular chromosome

2) may donate genes from its chromosome to another cell

F - cell:

1) may become F + after conjugation with an F + cell

2) may become recombinant after conjugation with an Hfr cell

3) may receive genetic material, but cannot donate genetic material

Yes, these are correct.

Explanation:

Bacterial conjugation is the bacterial counterpart of sexual reproduction. Also known as horizontal gene transfer, it involves the transfer of genetic material from one F + or Hfr bacterium to another F + or F - bacterium. The F or fertility factor is a crucial component of the bacterial plasmid and it accounts for the development of sex pili which are important for conjugation. An F + cells contains the F-factor incorporated into its plasmid, whereas an F - cell lacks the F-factor and therefore cannot participate in conjugation. Conjugation between an F + and F - cell can result in the transfer of the F-factor to the F - bacterium. An Hfr bacterium contains F-factor incorporated into its circular genome.