Bacteriophages are viruses that infect bacteria and archaea. They have a simple structure with genetic materials covered in a protein coat.
Bacteriophage is a type of virus that infects and replicates within bacteria and archaea. Current use includes vector and potential antibacterial agent.
When a panel of lytic phages is inoculated on a lawn inoculum of the bacteria, phages which are able to set up a lytic infection produce a clear zone.
Lysis of the bacteriophage is indicated by the formation of a zone of clearing or plaque within the lawn of bacteria.