The process of
cell division in
prokaryotes. Since prokaryotic cells are less complex than
eukaryotic cells, cell division is also less complicated.
Prokaryotic DNA is in the form of a single loop, which is called a chromosome. In preparation for replication, it attaches to the cell membrane. After replication, there are two loops of DNA attached to the membrane; the membrane begins to grow between the two attachment points, carrying the loops to opposite sides of the cell. The cell membrane constricts between the two sides, resulting in cytokinesis. Once cytokinesis is complete, the result is two daughter cells that are genetically identical to each other and to the parent cell that produced them.