Abilities of prokaryotes (identify the non-feature) Prokaryotic organisms exhibit many capabilities. Which of the following is NOT a typical feature of prokaryotes?

Introduction / Context:
Bacteria and archaea display remarkable metabolic and ecological diversity. However, their reproductive strategies differ fundamentally from those of eukaryotes. This question asks you to identify which listed capability is not a standard property of prokaryotes as a group.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Prokaryotes reproduce primarily by asexual binary fission.
• They can exchange genes via horizontal mechanisms (transformation, transduction, conjugation).
• Many prokaryotes can fix nitrogen, perform photosynthesis, move using flagella, or live as chemoautotrophs.

Concept / Approach:

True sexual reproduction involves meiosis and syngamy (gamete fusion) resulting in recombination tied to reproduction. Prokaryotes do not perform meiosis or form gametes; genetic exchange is decoupled from reproduction and occurs through horizontal gene transfer mechanisms. Therefore, sexual reproduction is not a prokaryotic feature in the eukaryotic sense.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Microbiology references define bacterial reproduction as binary fission and clarify that horizontal gene transfer does not constitute true sex, despite promoting genetic diversity.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Nitrogen fixation: Performed by diazotrophs such as Rhizobium and some cyanobacteria.
• Photosynthesis: Carried out by cyanobacteria and phototrophic bacteria.
• Locomotion: Many bacteria are motile via flagella; archaea have archaella.
• Chemoautotrophy: Numerous lineages oxidize inorganic substrates for energy.

Common Pitfalls:

• Equating gene exchange with sexual reproduction; mechanisms and outcomes differ.
• Assuming all bacteria are immobile; many are highly motile.

Final Answer:

sexual reproduction