- Bacteria reproduce by binary fission. First, the genetic material is copied and then the cell divides in two so each cell gets a copy of the genetic material and some cytoplasm.
- Virus require a living host to reproduce. Some types attach to the outside of the host cell and the genetic material is released inside the cell. The genetic material causes the host cell to make copies of the virus genetic material and produce a protein coat so new viruses are released from host cell.
- Fungi produce spores to reproduce. Sporangia develop and when ripe burst open releasing spores. Spores germinate and grow a new fungus.
A similarity between bacteria, virus, and fungi reproduction is that all three copy the genetic material so new individuals always receive an exact copy of the genetic material (asexual reproduction-genetically identical offspring).
A similarity between viruses and fungi is that many offspring are produced each time whereas bacteria only produce two cells each time.
The main difference with viruses is the need for a host cell that puts together the virus parts. Sometimes the host cell dies as it bursts open to release virus. However, bacteria and fungi reproduce on the food source they are growing on, which need not be living.
A difference between bacteria and fungi that bacteria do not have specific structures related to binary fission. The bacterial cell can divide into two cells whereas fungi must develop reproductive sporangia that ripen and burst to release many spores that germinate and grow into new fungi.