Question

Name the gene in the spores responsible for control of pest.

Hint:

Note the distinction: \textit{cryIAc} and \textit{cryIIAb} control cotton bollworms, while \textit{cryIAb} controls corn borer.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
\textit{Bacillus thuringiensis} (Bt) produces protein crystals that contain a toxic insecticidal protein. This protein is encoded by genes called \textit{cry} genes.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The spores of Bt contain crystalline protein inclusions. The synthesis of these proteins is controlled by the \textit{cry genes.
Different \textit{cry} genes target different pests. Specifically, for the corn borer, the gene is \textit{cryIAb.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The gene is the \textit{cry} gene.