How do bacteria asexually reproduce?

Answer 1

Bacteria reproduce asexually by a type of cell division called binary fission. In preparation for division, the DNA replicates. Two two daughter-molecules of DNA are pushed apart by synthesis of new cell membrane between them, so that the cell becomes longer. Then the cell membrane begins to fold inward, much as in the cytokinesis of animal cells, except that bacteria do not have a cytoskeleton. Eventually this infolding of the membrane separates the cell into two daughter cells.

To see images of binary fission, visit: http://bhs.smuhsd.org/bhsnew/academicprog/science/vaughn/Student%20Projects/Paul%20&%20Marcusbinaryfission.jpg http://www.karlloren.com/biopsy/p66.htm
The asexual reproduction of bacteria is called agamogenesis (reproduction without the fusion of gametes) through:

Binary fission, involving the division of an individual, forming 2 new, cloned individuals.

or a unidirectional passage of DNA from a donor cell to a recipient cell through:

Conjugation, involving direct cell-to-cell contact,

Plasmid loop transfer via pili, possibly a form of conjugation where the pili act as grasping/holding devices allowing the cell-to-cell transfer to be accomplished,

Transduction, involving a viral vector,

Transformation, involving DNA material from the environment.

These last methods are sometimes, mistakenly, likened to sexual reproduction, but lacking the necessary gamete fusion, they are asexual by definition.

Answer 2

Bacteria asexually reproduce through a process called binary fission. In this process, the bacterial cell splits into two identical daughter cells. The DNA is replicated, and the cell divides into two separate cells, each containing a copy of the genetic material.

Answer 3

Bacteria reproduce by cell division. They duplicate themselves.