Binary Fission & Its Types - Practice Questions & MCQ

• This is the simplest and most common method of asexual reproduction seen in unicellular organisms. 
• This occurs under the favourable conditions of the environment. 
• After the organism grown to its full size, the parent divides into two daughter cells which are genetically and morphologically similar. 
• During this process, the nucleus divides into two, called karyokinesis, followed by the division of the cytoplasm, called cytokinesis.
• Depending upon the plane of division, binary fission is of following types:
  • Simple Binary Fission
  • Transverse Binary Fission
  • Longitudinal Binary Fission

Simple Binary Fission:

• This type of binary fission occurs in the irregular-shaped organisms such as Amoeba in which the plane of division is difficult to ascertain.

Transverse Binary Fission:

• If the plane of division is at a right angle to the long axis of the animal, it is known as transverse binary fission in Paramecium and Planaria.

Longitudinal Binary Fission:

• In this type, the plane of fission is parallel to the long axis, as in Euglena, Vorticella and in some corals.

Note:

• In binary fission, the parent body as in whole forms the reproductive unit.
• After division, it disappears into daughter organisms.
• Hence, it is said that the parent cell has not died but has continued to live as two daughter individuals now.
• Thus, organisms performing binary fission are said to be immortal.