In the lytic cycle of bacteriophage, the phage is regarded as

Explanation

Virulent phages immediately destroy their host cells through the lytic cycle. Temperate phages can choose between the lytic and lysogenic cycles, allowing them to either kill the host or remain dormant. Lysogenic phages integrate their DNA into the host genome and replicate with it without causing harm until triggered to become active. Latent phages also remain inactive within the host for some time before reactivating to produce new viruses and lyse the host cell.