Bacillus thuringiensis
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a Gram-positive, soil-dwelling bacterium that produces a protein toxic to certain pests, making it a valuable biological insecticide. These proteins, known as Bt toxins, specifically target and kill insects while being harmless to humans, other mammals, and most other organisms.
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These proteins, known as Bt toxins, specifically target and kill insects while being harmless to humans, other mammals, and most other organisms. B. thuringiensis has been widely used in agriculture to control crop-damaging pests, such as the European corn borer and the diamondback moth. The bacterium and its toxins are also used in forestry, public health programs targeting disease-carrying mosquitoes, and organic farming. In addition to its insecticidal properties, B. thuringiensis has potential applications in biofuel production, drug delivery, and animal feed enhancement. This page provides a comprehensive overview of B. thuringiensis, including its history, biological characteristics, mechanisms of action, commercial use, safety, and impact on the environment.