One group includes causative agents of syphilis and Lyme disease. One group includes causative agents of leprosy and tuberculosis. Reproduction and Metabolic Diversity of Bacteria Reproduction is by an asexual process called binary fission . During this process, the DNA replicates and attaches to the plasma membrane. Then the cell divides and a bacterial cell wall forms.
Mutation is very important in the evolution and adaptation in asexually reproducing organisms.
It results in such phenomena as antibiotic resistance. Another phenomenon is noteworthy. Many bacteria can produce a resistant structure called a bacterial endospore . Endospore germination may occur after as many as 1,000 years of dormancy . Bacteria play a significant role in ecosystems .