Question

A bacteriophage that is capable of entering either a lytic or a lysogenic cycle is called a(n) ________.

A) temperate bacteriophage
B) virulent bacteriophage
C) plasmid
D) plaque-forming unit
E) episome

Answer 1

A bacteriophage that is capable of entering either a lytic or a lysogenic cycle is called a A) temperate bacteriophage. Hence, A) is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

A bacteriophage that is capable of entering either a lytic or a lysogenic cycle is called a temperate bacteriophage. In the lytic cycle, the phage replicates and lyses the host cell.

In the lysogenic cycle, phage DNA is incorporated into the host genome, where it is passed on to subsequent generations.

Environmental stressors such as starvation or exposure to toxic chemicals may cause the prophage to excise and enter the lytic cycle.