Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. Aizawai strain ABTS-1857

This biological agent is a spore-forming bacterium that produces crystalline proteins known as endotoxins, which serve as highly specific insecticidal agents.

When ingested by a larvae, the alkaline environment of the insect's midgut activates these crystalline proteins, transforming them into lethal toxins.

The activated toxins bind to specific receptors in the midgut lining, causing cell membrane rupture, paralysis of the digestive tract, and rapid cessation of feeding.

The insect stops causing damage to the crop shortly after ingestion, which significantly reduces immediate economic losses before mortality occurs.

This mode of action is highly targeted, ensuring that the preparation is non-toxic to humans, birds, beneficial insects, and other non-target organisms.

The product is specifically designed to control larvae of the order Lepidoptera, which are among the most destructive agricultural pests.

Target species include various types of loopers, armyworms, leafrollers, diamondback moths, and other caterpillars that feed on plant tissue.

It is widely utilized in professional agriculture for fruit orchards, vegetable fields, vineyards, and high-value greenhouse crops.

This strain is particularly effective against caterpillar populations that have developed resistance to synthetic chemical insecticides.

The treatment is most successful when applied against early larval instars, which are biologically predisposed to high-volume foliage consumption.

Application rates are determined by the target pest density, crop growth stage, and the specific equipment used for distribution.

Ideally, applications should coincide with the egg-hatch period to prevent larvae from establishing themselves on the crop canopy.

Since the product acts via ingestion, full and uniform coverage of the leaves, especially the undersides, is essential for high success rates.

In cases of high pest pressure or extended egg-laying periods, repeated applications at intervals of 7 to 10 days are standard practice.

The use of spray adjuvants is highly recommended to improve adhesion to plant surfaces and to ensure the product remains effective against washing off.

Bacillus thuringiensis products are susceptible to photodegradation by direct sunlight, which reduces their residual activity significantly.

It is strongly advised to perform spraying operations during late evening or early morning to maximize the stability of the active components.

Avoid tank mixing with alkaline substances or fungicides that have significant bactericidal activity, as these may diminish the biological efficacy.

The product does not possess systemic mobility, meaning it will not move to new growth after application, necessitating proper spray coverage.

As a biological tool, it provides an excellent safety profile, allowing for a zero or very short pre-harvest interval for most treated crops.