Which phage life cycle replicates the phage genome without destroying the host cell?

Which phage life cycle replicates the phage genome without destroying the host cell?

• A. Lytic cycle
• B. Lysogenic cycle
• C. Activation cycle
• D. Dormant phase

Answer: (B)

In the lysogenic cycle, the phage DNA inserts into the bacterial chromosome and becomes a prophage. The host cell then replicates its own DNA along with the prophage DNA every time it divides, so the phage genome is copied without killing the cell. The host remains alive, and the phage genome is passed to daughter cells. The prophage can later be induced to enter the lytic cycle, but during lysogeny the phage isn’t destroying the host. That’s why this cycle fits the description.

In the lysogenic cycle, the phage DNA inserts into the bacterial chromosome and becomes a prophage. The host cell then replicates its own DNA along with the prophage DNA every time it divides, so the phage genome is copied without killing the cell. The host remains alive, and the phage genome is passed to daughter cells. The prophage can later be induced to enter the lytic cycle, but during lysogeny the phage isn’t destroying the host. That’s why this cycle fits the description.