Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. Kurstaki strain ABTS-351

This active substance is a biological insecticide based on naturally occurring soil bacteria that produce specific crystalline proteins known as delta-endotoxins.

The mechanism of action is triggered when larvae of target insects ingest the treated foliage. Once in the alkaline environment of the insect gut, the crystals dissolve and release active toxins.

The toxins bind to specific receptors in the gut wall, leading to the formation of pores, gut rupture, and paralysis. Feeding ceases almost immediately after ingestion.

Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki strain ABTS-351 is highly specific to lepidopteran larvae, ensuring that beneficial insects, pollinators, and natural enemies remain unaffected.

The bacterial spores continue to exert control as long as the material remains on the leaf surface, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to integrated pest management.

The strain is primarily used to manage a wide array of lepidopteran pests, including caterpillars that feed on leaves, fruits, and flowers of various crops.

Target organisms include cabbage looper, imported cabbageworm, diamondback moth, codling moth, and various fruit-feeding caterpillars on vines and orchards.

It is widely applied in vegetable production, field crops, orchards, and greenhouse environments to protect against leaf-feeding larvae.

The product is highly valued in both conventional and organic farming systems for its ability to target pests without disrupting the broader ecosystem balance.

• Diamondback moth
• Codling moth
• European corn borer
• Grape berry moth
• Armyworms

Application rates are determined by crop type, pest pressure, and the developmental stage of the larvae. Younger larvae are significantly more susceptible to the treatment.

Thorough coverage is essential. The spray solution must reach all plant parts where larvae feed to ensure effective ingestion of the biological toxins.

The timing of the application should align with the egg-hatch period or the presence of early-instar larvae to maximize the efficiency of the control program.

Repeated applications may be necessary if pest pressure is sustained or during rapid plant growth, generally maintaining a 7–10 day interval depending on weather conditions.

Water quality, including pH levels, should be checked prior to mixing to ensure that the viability of the bacterial spores is maintained throughout the spray process.

UV radiation is the primary environmental factor that limits the longevity of the active proteins on foliage, making evening or cloudy day applications preferable.

The product lacks contact toxicity and rapid knockdown effects, requiring the pest to physically consume the treated plant tissue to initiate the lethal process.

Temperature affects the feeding rate of insects; extreme cold may delay the impact of the insecticide as metabolic processes in larvae slow down significantly.

Do not tank-mix with highly alkaline pesticides or broad-spectrum bactericides, as these may diminish the potency of the live bacterial components.

Storage conditions must be strictly controlled to prevent thermal degradation of the spores, which ensures the shelf life and efficacy of the product in the field.