Question

Bacteriophages that can enter into stable, long-term relationships with their hosts are called

• A. Lytic phages
• B. Defective phages
• C. Virulent phages
• D. Temperate phages

Hint:

Temperate phages have the ability to integrate into the host genome and exist in a dormant state, unlike virulent phages, which immediately destroy the host cell.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Bacteriophages that can enter into stable, long-term relationships with their hosts, integrating their genetic material into the host's genome, are called \textit{temperate phages}. These phages can exist in a latent form within the host (lysogenic cycle) without immediately killing the host cell. The viral genome can be replicated along with the host cell's DNA and passed on to daughter cells.

(1) Why Other Options Are Incorrect:
- Lytic phages are bacteriophages that cause the destruction of the host cell by lysis, and they do not form long-term relationships with the host.
- Defective phages are phages that cannot complete their life cycle independently and usually require a helper phage to replicate.
- Virulent phages are similar to lytic phages, causing host cell death through lysis and not establishing long-term relationships.

Conclusion: Bacteriophages that can enter into stable, long-term relationships with their hosts are called temperate phages.