Which term refers to a virus that infects bacteria?

Master molecular genetics for the DAT with our targeted quizzes. Review key concepts through a variety of question formats and detailed explanations to boost your exam performance. Elevate your test preparedness today!

Multiple Choice

Which term refers to a virus that infects bacteria?

Explanation:
Bacteriophage is the term used for a virus that infects bacteria. The name combines bacterio- meaning bacteria with phage, from Greek meaning eater, reflecting how these viruses target and often lyse bacterial cells to replicate. A virophage only infects a giant virus, not bacteria, so it isn’t the right term here. While phage is a common shorthand, the formal term that specifies the bacterial host is bacteriophage.

Bacteriophage is the term used for a virus that infects bacteria. The name combines bacterio- meaning bacteria with phage, from Greek meaning eater, reflecting how these viruses target and often lyse bacterial cells to replicate. A virophage only infects a giant virus, not bacteria, so it isn’t the right term here. While phage is a common shorthand, the formal term that specifies the bacterial host is bacteriophage.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy