F plasmid

The F plasmid, or fertility plasmid, is a small piece of DNA found in certain bacteria that enables them to transfer genetic material to other bacteria through a process called conjugation. Essentially, it acts like a genetic transfer tool, allowing bacteria to share genes, including those that may confer advantages like antibiotic resistance. The presence of the F plasmid allows bacteria to act as donors in this process, making it an important factor in bacterial evolution and gene sharing within microbial communities.