Lateral gene transfer, also known as horizontal gene transfer, increases genetic diversity and plays a big role in evolution of single celled organisms.
The correct answer would be C) The genetic variation will increase.
Horizontal or lateral gene transfer refers to the transmission of genetic material between two different genomes which is distinguished from a transfer of genetic material from parent to the offspring that is, vertical gene transfer.
For example, transformation, transduction, and conjugation result in horizontal gene transfer in bacteria.
It increases genetic variation of the population and plays important role in adaptation as well as evolution.
