Katyayani BT Bio Insecticide | Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti)

Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) is a naturally occurring soil bacterium commonly used as a biological insecticide. It is specific to mosquitoes and black flies, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical insecticides. Bti works by producing protein crystals that are toxic to the larvae of these insects. When the larvae ingest the crystals, they become paralyzed and unable to eat, eventually leading to death.

Target pests

• Mosquitoes (particularly larvae of the Aedes, Anopheles, and Culex species)
• Black flies

Dosage Of BTI

The dose of Bti varies depending on the specific product and the target pest. It is typically applied as a liquid spray or granules to areas where mosquito or black fly larvae are breeding. For example, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a dose of 1-2 mg/liter of Bti for mosquito control.

Here are some additional details about Bti

Mode of action: The protein crystals produced by Bti bind to specific receptors in the midgut of mosquito and black fly larvae. This binding disrupts the gut lining, leading to paralysis and death.

Safety: Bti is considered safe for humans, animals, and most non-target insects. It is exempt from registration by the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) due to its low toxicity.

Advantages: Bti is a targeted insecticide that does not harm most beneficial insects. It is also biodegradable and does not leave harmful residues in the environment.
Disadvantages: Bti is not as effective as some chemical insecticides, and it may need to be reapplied more frequently. It is also more expensive than some other insecticides.