A scientist is studying two strains of the same species of bacteria, labeled A and B. Strain A has the trait of resistance to the drug penicillin, while Strain B is not resistant to penicillin. After populations of the two strains are mixed together, which is the MOST LIKELY way that Strain B becomes resistant to penicillin? A. The bacteria in Strain B form a mutualistic relationship with the bacteria in Strain A.
B. The bacteria in Strain B undergo random mutations, some of which provide resistance to penicillin.
C. The bacteria in Strain B form endosperms, which are temporary multicellular organisms.
D. The bacteria in Strain B undergo asexual reproduction, which passes advantageous traits to offspring.
E. Bacteria in both strains exchange genetic information through the process of conjugation.