In which bacterial growth phase does the rate of reproduction equal the rate of death?

The stationary phase is characterized by a balance between the number of new cells being produced and the number of cells that are dying. During this phase, the nutrient supply becomes limited, and waste products may start to accumulate, leading to a decline in the growth rate. As the conditions stabilize, the growth rate and death rate reach an equilibrium, which means the overall number of viable cells remains relatively constant. This phase is significant in understanding bacterial growth dynamics, as it reflects the challenges that bacteria face in sustaining their population under limited resources. It is also the phase where bacteria are less likely to be sensitive to certain types of antibiotic treatments, making it a critical point for food safety and management practices.