The term for the exchange of genetic material between bacteria via contact is conjugation.

Here's a breakdown:

* Conjugation: This process involves the transfer of genetic material from one bacterium to another through direct contact. A donor bacterium produces a pilus, a thin tube-like structure, that attaches to the recipient bacterium. The donor's DNA, often in the form of a plasmid, is then transferred through the pilus into the recipient.

There are other ways bacteria can exchange genetic material:

* Transformation: Bacteria take up free DNA from their environment.

* Transduction: DNA is transferred from one bacterium to another via a virus.

Let me know if you have any other questions about bacterial genetics!