PROKARYOTE CELL DIVISION: BINARY FISSION
– Prokaryote cells represent the most primitive living form of cells.
– They divide in a less complex manner the Eukaryote cells, called BINARY FISSION.
– It is not enough to just divide in half; each cell must pass along its’ genetic information to future generations of cells.
– When a cell reproduces, each daughter cell must receive a complete copy of all of the essential genetic material.
– Before a cell divides, the parent cell produces a copy of all the required genetic information. This duplication of the genetic material is called REPLICATION.
– Prokaryote cells have one circular chromosome, prior to cell division, the single chromosome replicates. The 2 strands move to opposite ends of the cell.
– The cell doubles in size, the plasma membrane grows inward, producing a new cell wall as it goes.
– When the new cell wall is in place it “pinches” off and the cell divides into 2. Producing 2 genetically equal daughter cells. Each daughter cell contains a entire set of genetic material.
– Binary Fission is fast, under ideal conditions it can be completed in 20 – 30 minutes.