What unique replication phenomenon occurs during prokaryotic DNA replication?

Theta replication is a unique phenomenon observed during prokaryotic DNA replication, particularly in circular DNA molecules, such as those found in bacteria. This process is named for the “theta” shape that the DNA takes on as replication proceeds. During theta replication, the circular DNA molecule unwinds at the origin of replication, forming a replication bubble. As replication continues, two replication forks move away from this origin, allowing both strands of DNA to be copied simultaneously in opposite directions. This bidirectional nature of replication contributes to the efficiency of cell division in prokaryotes.

The significance of theta replication lies in its adaptation to the circular structure of prokaryotic DNA, which fundamentally differs from how linear chromosomes replicate in eukaryotes. The other processes mentioned do not specifically describe the unique manner in which prokaryotes replicate their DNA.