This chapter focuses on the characteristics of the bacterial viruses (bacteriophages). It begins with their classification and then details the infectious cycle of those DNA viruses that cause destruction (lysis) of host cells. RNA phages are discussed briefly, and the chapter concludes with information about phages that can set up a stable residence within the host cell. These phages are called temperate phages, and the process is referred to as lysogeny.
To learn more about the book this website supports, please visit its Information Center.