Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. tenebrionis strain NB176

This object is a specialized group of biological insecticides based on Gram-positive spore-forming bacteria. The active components are specific endotoxins produced by the bacteria during the sporulation phase.

The mechanism of action relies on the ingestion of crystalline proteins by the insect pest. In the alkaline environment of the insect's midgut, the toxin is activated and binds to specific receptors on the epithelial cell walls.

Interaction between the toxin and the gut receptors leads to the formation of pores in the cell membranes. This process disrupts the osmotic balance and causes the digestive tract to fail, leading to cessation of feeding.

Paralysis of the digestive system occurs shortly after ingestion. Within several hours or days, the insect dies due to septicemia and overall exhaustion of the organism.

A key feature of this strain is its high selectivity. It specifically targets coleopteran pests while remaining harmless to beneficial insects, bees, and mammals.

The main area of application for this strain is the control of leaf-eating coleopteran insects. It demonstrates high efficacy against various stages of the Colorado potato beetle.

The product is highly effective against early-instar larvae, which consume the most foliage. Proper timing allows growers to keep pest populations below the economic damage threshold.

It also shows activity against certain species of leaf beetles affecting vegetable and ornamental plants. Due to the high specificity of the toxin, the range of targeted pests is limited to a narrow group.

Using this strain is ideal for integrated pest management (IPM) systems, where minimizing chemical input is a priority. It serves as an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides.

• Larvae and adults of the Colorado potato beetle.
• Various coleopteran pests on vegetable crops.

Application rates depend on pest pressure and the phenological stage of the crop. Treatments should be applied during the period of mass hatching, when larvae are most susceptible to endotoxins.

To achieve maximum efficacy, thorough and uniform coverage of the leaf surface is required. The solution should be prepared immediately before application, as biological agents are sensitive to environmental conditions.

The optimal temperature for application ranges from +15 to +25 degrees Celsius. Cooler temperatures slow down insect metabolism, which may delay the observable insecticidal effect.

Sequential applications can be conducted at 7–10 day intervals, depending on the dynamic of new pest generations. Exposure of the ready-to-use spray to direct sunlight should be minimized.

This biological product is safe to use close to harvest as it does not possess systemic properties and does not accumulate in edible plant parts.

The main limitation is the sensitivity to weather conditions. High intensity of ultraviolet radiation can lead to rapid degradation of protein toxins on the leaf surface.

It is not recommended to apply the product if rainfall is expected, as rain can wash it off the leaves. Efficiency drops significantly if the application timing is poorly managed.

Compatibility with fungicides and other pesticides must be verified. Mixing with strong bactericidal agents that can inhibit spore viability is strictly prohibited.

Personal protective equipment should be used during handling. Storage must be in a cool, dark place to maintain the viability of the bacterial spores.

Biological control does not yield instant results like contact synthetic insecticides. It is essential for agronomists to monitor crops to ensure that feeding damage does not exceed tolerance levels.