 Bacteria containing F-factors (said to be "F+") have the capability for horizontal gene transfer; they can construct a sex pilus, which emerges from the donor bacterium and ensnares the recipient bacterium, draws it in, and eventually triggers the formation of a mating bridge, merging the cytoplasms of two bacteria via a controlled pore.This pore allows the transfer of genetic material, such as a plasmid.Conjugation allows two bacteria, not necessarily from the same species, to transfer genetic material one way.