Question:

Bacillus thuringiensis is used to control which one of the following pathogens/pests ?

Show Hint

Bt toxin from Bacillus thuringiensis kills insect larvae, so it is a biocontrol agent for insect pests.
Updated On: Oct 22, 2026
  • Bacterial pathogen
  • Fungal pathogen
  • Nematodes
  • Insect pests
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The Correct Option is D

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Recall what Bt is:
Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a soil bacterium.
It is used as a biocontrol agent, a living organism used to control pests.

Step 2: Know how it works:
Dried spores of Bt are sprayed on crops such as brassicas and fruit trees.
A caterpillar eats the leaf and the toxin becomes active in its alkaline gut.
The toxin kills the larva, so the pest is controlled.

Step 3: Name the targets:
Bt toxin acts on the larvae of lepidopteran, coleopteran and dipteran insects.
So it controls insect pests.

Step 4: Check the other options:
Bt toxin is not used against bacterial or fungal pathogens.
Nematodes are not the target of the Cry proteins.
So only option (D) fits.

Final Answer:
Bt is used to control insect pests, option (D).
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