Question

The bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis is widely used in contemporary biology as
A. Source of industrial enzyme
B. Insecticide
C. Indicator of water pollution
D. Agent for production of dairy products

Answer 1

Hint: Bacillus thuringiensis is a type of bacterium with great scientific interest. They can kill a large variety of species . And they are generally endospore forming bacteria.

Complete Answer:
- Bacillus thuringiensis is a natural occurring soil borne bacteria which has been used from the 1950 for normal insect control. It is composed of a spore which gives it resolution, and also has a protein crystal within the spore, which are very toxic. The toxic protein differs, based on the subspecies of Bt producing it.
- In recent times, Bt has been questioned because of its addition in genetically modified corn and cotton. The variation between the Bt used by organic farmers just about the world and that genetically inserted into corn is vivid.
- Naturally occurring Bacillus thuringiensis is contained within the bacterium. Bt has a very short half life when they are exposed to sunlight and the elements. Insects had acquired immunity to the genetically modified Bt composed of corn when the GMO corn has, beside best agricultural practice, been planted in the same area year after year.
- Embattled use of Bt insect control products used on properly managed plots have not resulted in insect resistance. Based on which strain is used the Bt continues to be useful on cabbage worms, tent caterpillars, potato beetles, mosquitoes, black fly and a diversity of other insect pests.
- Bacillus thuringiensis a gram positive bacteria which are generally used as a pesticide. It works on many plants eating insects. It gives out toxins during sporulation that stops the gut of insects and kills them.

So the correct answer for this question is option B) insecticide.

Note: They can synthesize different insecticidal proteins which are able to kill insecticides. These proteins are extensively used for insect control practice in agriculture. They are not toxic to humans or other mammals.