Viruses that infect bacteria are referred to as:Group of answer choicesbacteriophagesviroidsbacteriodesviralcidens

The correct answer is bacteriophages.

Explanation:

1. Bacteriophages: These are viruses that specifically infect and replicate within bacteria. They play a crucial role in controlling bacterial populations and are used in various applications, including phage therapy.

2. Viroids: These are small, circular pieces of RNA that infect plants, not bacteria.

3. Bacteroides: This refers to a genus of bacteria that are found in the intestines of humans and other animals. They are not viruses.

4. Viralcidens: This term is not commonly used in virology to refer to any specific type of virus and does not apply in this context.

In summary, the term that specifically describes viruses that infect bacteria is bacteriophages.