Which type replicates via binary fission?

• A. Eukaryotic
• B. Prokaryotic
• C. Both
• D. Neither

Answer: (B)

Binary fission is the simple, asexual division used by prokaryotes to reproduce. In these organisms, the genome is typically a single circular chromosome located in the nucleoid. The DNA is replicated starting at the origin, the copies are segregated as the cell grows, and a contractile ring forms a septum in the middle to split the cell into two identical daughter cells. This straightforward process suits prokaryotes’ small, unicellular nature and rapid growth.

In contrast, eukaryotic cells usually divide by mitosis, where multiple linear chromosomes are precisely pulled apart by spindle fibers, followed by cytokinesis. While some special cases exist, binary fission is the hallmark division method for prokaryotes, making them the correct choice.