What allows bacteria to exchange genetic material through a process known as transduction?

Transduction is a process by which bacteria can transfer genetic material from one bacterium to another via bacteriophages, which are viruses that specifically infect bacteria. During this process, a bacteriophage can accidentally incorporate a fragment of bacterial DNA from a host and then transfer it to another bacterial cell upon infection. This mechanism of genetic exchange can lead to genetic diversity and can facilitate the acquisition of new traits, such as antibiotic resistance or metabolic capabilities.

The other options do not accurately describe the mechanism of transduction. Direct contact typically refers to processes such as conjugation where plasmids can be exchanged between bacteria. Spore formation is a method of reproduction and survival in certain bacteria but does not involve genetic exchange. Cell division refers to the process by which a bacterial cell replicates itself, leading to two identical daughter cells, rather than the transfer of genetic material between different organisms.