Bacillus thuringiensis

Bacillus thuringiensis comprise of gram-positive big rod shaped spore-forming bacterium. They have unusual property of producing a parasporal protein crystal known as ?-endotoxin or Cry proteinwhich is found toxic for many serious insect pests. Efforts have been made in many countries to isolate new strains with increased potency against target pest insects having a wider host range. These toxins have not only shown activity against insect member of order Lepidoptera Diptera Hymenoptera Isoptera Orthoptera and Coleoptera but also against nematodes mites lice aphids and ants. Till date many ?-endotoxin proteins were found effective against specific insects and surprisingly single strain of Bacillus thuringiensis found to produce one or more type of Cry proteins. An understanding of newly isolated Bacillus thuringiensis their efficacy mechanisms and presence of specific genes in them is essential for the future rational use of this Bacterial Insect Pathogen. The inimitable blend of benefits may help the farmers with the weapons they need to fight pests maintaining crop yields and improving the health of the world's growing population.