[Campbell Biology P.629] Which component is primarily responsible for the initial attachment... | Practice Question

Which component is primarily responsible for the initial attachment between E. coli donor and recipient cells during bacterial conjugation, and what specific genetic element enables the donor cell to form this structure?

  • A: Pilus; F factor
  • B: Flagellum; plasmid
  • C: Mating bridge; bacterial chromosome
  • D: Cell wall; R plasmid

Explanation

Figure 27.12 and the accompanying text state that the pilus extends from the donor cell to attach to the recipient cell, and that the F factor F for fertility is responsible for the ability to form pili and donate DNA during conjugation.