The key difference between Binary Fission and Multiple Fission is that a single entity divides into two parts in binary fission whereas a single entity divides into many parts in multiple fission.
Fission is a method of asexual reproduction shown by Bacteria, Archaea and some other single cell organisms. It is the process of dividing a single cell or an organism into two or more parts (divisions) which possess the ability to regenerate into a new organism that is identical to parent cell or organism. Fission may result in two identical parts or more identical parts. Therefore, fission can be binary fission or multiple fission.
CONTENTS
1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is Binary Fission
3. What is Multiple Fission
4. Similarities Between Binary Fission and Multiple Fission
5. Side by Side Comparison – Binary Fission vs Multiple Fission in Tabular Form
6. Summary
What is Binary Fission?
Binary fission is the division of a single entity into two parts that have the potential to regenerate into new organisms that resemble the parent. Binary fission is commonly visible in bacteria and Archaea (prokaryotes). It is a mode of asexual reproduction, and it is a quick way of multiplying organism number.
Figure 01: Binary Fission
The two parts produced from the binary fission grow into new entities that resemble the original with size, composition and the genetic material. Binary fission initiates with the DNA duplication. Then the replicated DNA move into two opposite sides of the cell, and the cell grows in size. The cell membrane constricts along the equatorial plane and splits into two parts in each having the same genetic material and cell composition.
What is Multiple Fission?
Multiple fission is a mode of asexual reproduction seen in single cell protista (protozoans and algae). It is the process of dividing a single entity into many parts that can grow into new organisms that resemble the original.
Figure 02: Multiple Fission
The nucleus divides into many nuclei as a result of mitosis and the cytoplasm separate into different parts creating new daughter cells.
What are the Similarities Between Binary Fission and Multiple Fission?
- Bacteria undergo binary fission and multiple fission.
- Both Binary fission and multiple fission produce new parts which have the potential to regenerate into a new
- Binary fission and multiple fission initiates from a single entity.
- Both are asexual methods of reproduction.
What is the Difference Between Binary Fission and Multiple Fission?
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Binary Fission vs Multiple Fussion |
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| Binary fission is a way of asexual reproduction that produces two parts from an organism or a single entity. | Multiple fission is a way of asexual reproduction that produces many parts from a single entity. |
| Number of Parts Produced | |
| Results in two parts. | Results in many parts. |
| Organisms | |
| Binary fission is visible in bacteria and Archaea. | Multiple fission is visible in bacteria and protista. |
| Division of the Nucleus | |
| Nucleus divides into two nuclei. | Nucleus divides into many nuclei. |
| Number of Daughter Cells Produced | |
| Produces two daughter cells. | Produces many daughter cells. |
Summary – Binary Fission vs Multiple Fission
Binary fission and multiple fission are two asexual methods shown by bacteria and protista. Binary fission produces two parts that have the potential to grow into new organisms while multiple fission produces many parts that have the potential to grow into many daughter cells. Both methods results new cells or organisms which are identical to the parent. This is the difference between binary fission and multiple fission.