How Does Binary Fission Differ from Multiple Fission?

The main difference between binary fission and multiple fission is the number of offspring produced from a single parent cell. In binary fission, the parent cell divides to form two identical daughter cells. In contrast, multiple fission results in the formation of many daughter cells from a single parent.
Key differences in their processes include:

• Nuclear Division: In binary fission, the nucleus divides only once (karyokinesis). In multiple fission, the nucleus undergoes repeated divisions to form numerous daughter nuclei before the cytoplasm divides.
• Timing of Cytokinesis: In binary fission, nuclear division is immediately followed by the division of the cytoplasm (cytokinesis). In multiple fission, cytokinesis is delayed until after many nuclear divisions have already occurred.
• Environmental Conditions: Binary fission typically occurs under favorable conditions when there is adequate food, temperature, and moisture.Multiple fission is often a survival strategy triggered by unfavorable conditions, usually involving the formation of a protective cyst.