Here's why:
* Conjugation is a form of horizontal gene transfer in Paramecium where two individuals temporarily fuse and exchange genetic material. This exchange leads to genetic recombination, creating new combinations of genes within the population.
* Population size increase is usually achieved through asexual reproduction (binary fission) in Paramecium. In this process, a single individual divides into two genetically identical offspring. This does not introduce new genetic combinations.
Therefore, conjugation is the process responsible for genetic recombination, while binary fission contributes to population growth without introducing new genetic diversity.
