Question

How is transformation different from transduction?

Answer 1

Feature	Transformation	Transduction
Mechanism	The direct uptake of naked DNA fragments from the surrounding environment.	The transfer of bacterial DNA via a virus (bacteriophage).
Requirement	Requires the recipient cell to be in a physiological state of competence.	Requires a viral vector (bacteriophage) to infect and carry the DNA.
DNA Source	Free-floating DNA is typically released from lysed (dead) bacteria.	DNA accidentally packaged into a viral head during viral replication in a host.
DNase Sensitivity	Sensitive; the naked DNA can be degraded by enzymes in the environment.	Resistant; the DNA is protected inside the viral protein coat.
Discovery	First observed by Frederick Griffith (1928) in Streptococcus pneumoniae.	Discovered by Zinder and Lederberg (1951) in Salmonella.