Bacillus sphaericus is what?

Bacillus sphaericus is what?

• A. A Chemical Insecticide
• B. A Fungal Insecticide
• C. A Habitat Modifier
• D. A Bacterial Larvicide

Answer: (D)

Bacillus sphaericus is a bacterial larvicide. It’s a spore-forming bacterium that, when applied to mosquito breeding habitats, releases toxins that specifically kill mosquito larvae in the water. Because of this living-organism mode of action, it’s classified as a biological control agent rather than a chemical insecticide, a fungal product, or a habitat modifier. It’s particularly effective against certain mosquito groups like Culex and is used by applying to standing water where larvae develop. It’s generally safe for humans and non-targets when used as labeled, though effectiveness can vary by species and environmental conditions.

Bacillus sphaericus is a bacterial larvicide. It’s a spore-forming bacterium that, when applied to mosquito breeding habitats, releases toxins that specifically kill mosquito larvae in the water. Because of this living-organism mode of action, it’s classified as a biological control agent rather than a chemical insecticide, a fungal product, or a habitat modifier. It’s particularly effective against certain mosquito groups like Culex and is used by applying to standing water where larvae develop. It’s generally safe for humans and non-targets when used as labeled, though effectiveness can vary by species and environmental conditions.