Study GuideMicrobiology–Industrial Microbiology1.Insecticides and Leaching AgentsMicroorganisms are not only important in health and food production—they are also widely used inagricultureandindustry. Two important applications are their use asbiological insecticidesand asleaching agentsin mining.1.1Microorganisms as InsecticidesSome bacteria naturally produce substances that kill harmful insects. Because these methods arespecific and environmentally friendly, they are highly valued in agriculture.Bacillus thuringiensis(Bt)One of the most important microbial insecticides isBacillus thuringiensis.•This bacterium produces atoxic crystalinside its cells•When caterpillars such asgypsy moth larvaeortomato hornwormseat the bacteria, thecrystal damages theirdigestive tract•The damage allows other bacteria to invade, leading to destruction of the insect’s tissues anddeathBacillus thuringiensisis sprayed on crops during the growing season. It is popular because it:•Targets specific insects•Does not harm most other organisms•Is considered safer than chemical insecticides1.2Bacillus popillaeAnother bacterium used for insect control isBacillus popillae.•It causesmilky spore diseasein caterpillars•Infected insects become weak and eventually die•This bacterium is especially useful for long-term control of insect populationsPreview Mode
This document has 8 pages. Sign in to access the full document!