Page 187 - Canadian BC Science 9

Binary fission is the only method of reproduction for some types of bacteria. Since bacteria do not have a nucleus, they do not undergo mitosis. However, the one ring of DNA does replicate (Figure 5.19). If the environmental conditions are favourable, a bacterium can reproduce every 20 minutes by this method. You may have had an experience where you became ill very quickly. Within two days of Streptococcus bacteria entering your body, you may get a very sore throat and fever because the bacteria multiply into millions very quickly.
single chromosome
original chromosome replicated chromosome
comes from the Latin words binarius, meaning two together, and fissio, meaning to split.
Figure 5.19
Binary fission in a bacterium
Chapter 5 Mitosis is the basis of asexual reproduction. • MHR 169
Word Connect
The term “binary fission”