Which of the following describes a type of relationship that bacteriophages can have with their host?

• A. Parasitism
• B. Mutualism
• C. Commensalism
• D. Lytic cycle

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the nature of bacteriophages: Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria. They have specific relationships with their bacterial hosts, primarily through the lytic and lysogenic cycles.
2. Define the lytic cycle: In the lytic cycle, bacteriophages attach to the bacterial cell, inject their genetic material, and use the host's cellular machinery to replicate. This process ultimately leads to the destruction of the host cell, releasing new viral particles.
3. Identify the type of relationship: The lytic cycle is a form of parasitism. In parasitism, one organism (the parasite) benefits at the expense of the other (the host). Here, the bacteriophage benefits by replicating, while the bacterial host is harmed and eventually destroyed.
4. Differentiate from other relationships: Mutualism is a relationship where both organisms benefit, which is not the case in the lytic cycle. Commensalism involves one organism benefiting without affecting the other, which also does not apply here as the host is harmed.
5. Conclude the relationship type: Based on the definition and characteristics of the lytic cycle, the relationship between bacteriophages and their host in this cycle is best described as parasitism.