bacteriophages

Bacteriophages, often called phages, are viruses that specifically infect bacteria. They attach to a bacterial cell, inject their genetic material, and hijack the bacteria's machinery to produce more virus particles. Eventually, the bacteria burst, releasing new phages to infect other bacteria. Phages are naturally present in environments like soil and water and play a key role in controlling bacterial populations. Because they target only bacteria, they are being studied as potential alternatives to antibiotics for treating bacterial infections.