Summary
Asexual reproduction in which a bacterial cell copies its DNA and splits into two identical cells.
In depth
The chromosome is replicated from one origin, the copies move apart and FtsZ forms a ring at the middle which constricts to divide the cell. Under ideal conditions, populations double every 20 minutes (E. coli), so one cell can yield billions in a day.
Daughter cells are clones unless mutation occurs.
Chromosome replication and segregation take time; in fast growth, new rounds start before division is complete. Cells reach a mass threshold.
Key idea: bacterial division is asexual and produces genetically identical cells barring mutation.
Chromosome replication and segregation are coordinated with growth: in fast-growing E. coli, new rounds of replication begin before the previous ends, so cells can double in less time than needed to copy the chromosome. Min proteins oscillate to position the FtsZ ring at midcell, and nucleoid occlusion prevents cutting through DNA.
Growth is exponential: starting with one cell and a doubling time of 20 minutes, there are over a billion cells after 10 hours. Cell division proteins are targets for new antibiotics. Archaea divide with the ESCRT-III or FtsZ systems depending on species.
Example: in the lab, a viable count by serial dilution and plating estimates the number of colony forming units.
Frequently asked questions
What is Binary Fission?
Asexual reproduction in which a bacterial cell copies its DNA and splits into two identical cells.
Which area of biology covers Binary Fission, and how advanced is it?
Binary Fission is one of the 54 topics in Microbiology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Growth Curve, Bacteria, Bacterial Genetics.
Can you give an example of Binary Fission?
Mycobacterium tuberculosis divides only about once per day.
What should I learn before Binary Fission?
Binary Fission is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Microbiology that pair well with it include Microorganisms, Bacteria, Archaea.
What topics are related to Binary Fission?
The closest topics to Binary Fission are Growth Curve, Bacteria, Bacterial Genetics, Conjugation. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Binary Fission?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Binary Fission. To practise the whole of Microbiology, use the Microbiology quiz.
How is Binary Fission different from Growth Curve?
Binary Fission: Asexual reproduction in which a bacterial cell copies its DNA and splits into two identical cells. Growth Curve: A graph of bacterial number over time with lag, log, stationary and death phases. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Binary Fission step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Growth Curve and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Microbiology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.