Question

In what ways are conjugation and transformation similar and in what ways are they different?

Answer 1

Conjugation and transformation are both kinds of horizontal gene transfer that allow a cell to receive and recombine external DNA. Conjugation involves physical contact between two bacteria using a pilus, through which a copy of plasmid DNA is transferred from the donor (F+) cell to the recipient (F-) cell. Transformation, on the other hand, is simple uptake of naked DNA into a recipient cell from the environment. The DNA usually comes from the leftovers of a dead cell.

Answer 2

Conjugation and transformation are both kinds of horizontal gene tranfer that allow the cell to receive and recombine external DNA. Conjugation as we know requires a physical contact between the two bacteria. Transformation requires a simple take of the naked DNA into the recipient cell from the environment.