What is BTi?

BTi, or Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, is indeed a special formulation of a common soil bacterium. It is a biological pesticide that specifically targets the larvae of certain insects, particularly mosquitoes and black flies. When BTi is ingested by these larvae, it produces toxins that cause them to stop feeding and eventually die, making it an effective tool for controlling populations of these insects without posing significant risks to beneficial insects or the environment.

The focus on BTi as a formulation of a bacterium emphasizes its role as a natural and environmentally friendly pest control method. This is important because many pest control strategies rely on synthetic chemicals, which may have broader ecological impacts. In contrast, BTi is known for its specificity and safety profile, allowing it to be a preferred choice in integrated pest management strategies aimed at controlling insect populations sustainably.