The Role of Microbial Bt Products in U.S. Crop Protection

• DOI: 10.1300/j153v05n01_03
• Publication Date: 2003-12-30T17:41:55Z
• Authors: Kathleen Walker; Michael Mendelsohn; Sharlene Matten; Marvin Alphin; Dirk Ave
• Keywords: Bacillus thuringiensis; Crop Protection; Bt Cotton; Beneficial insects

Microbial Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) insecticides have been used for over 40 years. In the United States, Bt formulations are primarily applied to control lepidopteran pests on fruit and vegetable crops, gypsy moth in forests dipteran (mosquitoes blackflies) that bite humans. A highly selective insecticide with activity conferred by insecticidal crystal proteins (ICPs), is generally not harmful humans, non-target wildlife or beneficial arthropods. Its selectivity unique mode of action make it an important alternative conventional chemical insecticides, many integrated pest management (IPM) programs particular crops as well certified organic production include use Bt. Agricultural commercialization adoption plant-incorporated presents new opportunities expand ICPs agricultural control, but also raises concerns about potential accelerated development resistance The relative risks benefits microbial products introduced.