What distinguishes sex pili from other types of pili?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the distinguishing features of sex pili compared to other types of pili, focusing on their structure, function, and classification in different bacterial types.
Answer
Sex pili are longer and thicker than other pili and facilitate DNA transfer.
Sex pili are longer and thicker than other types of pili, and are specialized for the transfer of genetic material between bacterial cells during conjugation.
Answer for screen readers
Sex pili are longer and thicker than other types of pili, and are specialized for the transfer of genetic material between bacterial cells during conjugation.
More Information
Sex pili are essential in bacterial conjugation, a process where one bacterium transfers genetic material to another, contributing to genetic diversity.
Tips
It is a common mistake to confuse the functions of different types of pili. Remember that sex pili are involved in DNA transfer.
Sources
- What is the Structure and Function of Fimbriae and Pili? - BYJU'S - byjus.com
- Flagella, Cilia, Pili: What's the Difference? - Technology Networks - technologynetworks.com
- 14.3B: Pili and Pilus Assembly - Biology LibreTexts - bio.libretexts.org
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