Question:

Extra circular, double stranded, self-replicating DNA present in a bacteria is known as

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Plasmids are key tools in molecular biology for gene cloning and expression in bacteria due to their self-replicating nature.
Updated On: Jun 19, 2026
  • Cosmid
  • Nucleoid
  • Phagemid
  • Plasmid
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understand bacterial DNA.
Bacteria have a main chromosomal DNA (nucleoid) and often contain extra-chromosomal DNA elements called plasmids.

Step 2: Characteristics of plasmids.

- Plasmids are circular, double-stranded DNA molecules.
- They can replicate independently of the bacterial chromosome.
- Plasmids often carry genes that confer selective advantages, like antibiotic resistance.

Step 3: Compare with other options.

- Cosmid: vector combining features of plasmids and phages, used in cloning.
- Nucleoid: region containing the main bacterial chromosome.
- Phagemid: hybrid vector combining features of plasmids and phages.

Step 4: Conclusion.

Hence, extra-chromosomal, self-replicating circular DNA in bacteria is called a Plasmid.
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