What is a virus that attacks bacteria cells called?

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Study for the 9th Grade Biology SOL Test. Prepare with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each featuring hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

What is a virus that attacks bacteria cells called?

Explanation:
Viruses that specifically target bacteria are called bacteriophages. The name literally means “bacteria eaters,” reflecting how these viruses hijack a bacterial cell’s machinery to make more virus particles. Bacteriophages are the precise term for a virus that infects bacteria, whereas a general virus can infect many different kinds of cells, not just bacteria. A bacterium is the host organism, not the virus, and “phage” is a shorter, informal form of bacteriophage.

Viruses that specifically target bacteria are called bacteriophages. The name literally means “bacteria eaters,” reflecting how these viruses hijack a bacterial cell’s machinery to make more virus particles. Bacteriophages are the precise term for a virus that infects bacteria, whereas a general virus can infect many different kinds of cells, not just bacteria. A bacterium is the host organism, not the virus, and “phage” is a shorter, informal form of bacteriophage.

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