A bacteriophage that incorporates itself into the host genome as a lysogenic prophage is a(n) ______ phage.

• A. virulent
• B. filamentous
• C. lytic
• D. temperate

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the life cycles of bacteriophages: primarily lytic and lysogenic cycles.
2. Recall that in the lytic cycle, the phage replicates inside the host and causes cell lysis, releasing new phage particles.
3. Recognize that in the lysogenic cycle, the phage integrates its genome into the host's chromosome, becoming a prophage.
4. Identify that a phage capable of integrating into the host genome and existing in a dormant state is called a temperate phage.
5. Conclude that the correct term for a phage incorporating itself as a lysogenic prophage is 'temperate phage'.