BIOTECHNOLOGY SEMINAR REPORT

ON

MICROBIAL INSECTICIDES: PRODUCTION, APPLICATION, AND

CONSEQUENCES

BY

AKHALUMHE, JOSEPH AUSTIN

MATRIC NUMBER: MCB/19/027

PROGRAMME: MICROBIOLOGY

DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES

SCHOOL OF SCIENCE.

A REPORT SUBMITTED TO THE DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES,

SCHOOL OF SCIENCE, OLUSEGUN AGAGU UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE AND
TECHNOLOGY, OKITIPUPA IN PARTIAL FULFILLMENT OF THE
REQUIREMENT FOR THE AWARD OF BACHELOR OF TECHNOLOGY (B. TECH.)
IN MICROBIOLOGY.

1
 JANUARY, 2024.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Certification…………………………………………………………… …. 4

Declaration……………………………………………………………. ….. 5

Dedication……………………………………………………………......... 6

Acknowledgment……………………………………………………………7

CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction…………………………………………………………… 8

1.1 Fields in Biotechnology……………………………………………….. 11

1.2 Impact of Biotechnology……………….…………………….…….. 13

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 Introduction to Microbial Insecticides……………………………………. 15

2.1 Importance of microbial insecticides in pest management………………………………….

21

2.2 Production of microbial insecticides………………………… 21

2.3 Selection of microbial strains……………………... 22

2.4 Fermentation, Culture techniques, Formulating and

Packaging…………………………………………. 27

2
 CHAPTER THREE

3.0 Application of microbial insecticides on Target pests and host

range…………………….. 28

3.1 Mode of Action and Methods of Application……………………….. 30

3.2 Environmental consideration and Safety……………………………………....... 33

CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 Consequences of microbial insecticides, Advantages and

Disadvantages…………………………….. 38

4.1 Impact on non target organism……………………….………. 38

4.2 Regulatory aspects and Public perception ………………………………………. 40

CHAPTER FIVE

5.0 Conclusion ……………………………………………………..………... 42

5.1 References……………………………………………………………...... 44

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 CERTIFICATION

This is to certify that this seminar report was written by AKHALUMHE, JOSEPH
AUSTIN of Biological Sciences department, School of Science, Olusegun Agagu University
of Science and Technology, Okitipupa under my supervision.

______________________ ______________________

Dr. F.A IKUESAN Date

(Seminar supervisor)

_______________________ ______________________

Dr. (MRS) Oguntimehin Date

(Seminar Coordinator)

______________________ ______________________

Dr. I. A. Adeyemo Date

Ag. HOD, Biological Sciences

4
 DECLARATION

I, AKHALUMHE JOSEPH AUSTIN hereby declares that this review work was written by
me and it is the record of knowledge gained in textbooks, journals and of course the
internet . All sources of information are clearly acknowledged by means of references.

_____________________________ __________________

AKHALUMHE, JOSEPH AUSTIN DATE

5
 DEDICATION
This report is dedicated to Almighty God, The Creator of Heaven and Earth and also to my
loving parents, family and my good friends.

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

My appreciation goes to the Lord God Almighty, My heavenly father, I give you the
Adoration for how far you protect, provide and grant me the Grace to achieve the
successful completion of this report.

I wish to express my profound gratitude to my parents, Mr. and Mrs. ENGR.

AKHALUMHE ALBERT for bringing me to this world. I sincerely pray that God will
spare your lives and you will not be missing when it is time to eat the fruit of your labour.

This acknowledgement will be incomplete without appreciating my supervisor DR. F. A.

IKUESAN for his relentless efforts, vast experience and supports throughout the course of
this report, may the Lord bless and reward you bountifully Sir.

I will also like to appreciate the Department of Biological Science and the Ag. H.O.D of
Biological Sciences, Dr. I. A. Adeyemo for his advice and roles regarding all students of the
department, Almighty God bless you sir. I will also like to appreciate the effort of my
seminar coordinator in person of Dr. (MRS) Oguntimehin.

Finally, I say a big thank you to all who individually and collectively helped me during this
report, may God bless and reward you all.

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 CHAPTER ONE

1.0 Introduction

Biotechnology, as the word suggests, is combination of biology and technology.

Biotechnology is the use of technology to use, modify or upgrade the part or whole of
biological system for industrial and human welfare. (Zahra, 2015)
Biotechnology is defined as:
1) “Biotechnology is the application of biological organisms, system or process to
manufacturing and service industries." (British or processes to manufacturing and
Biotechnologist)
2) “Biotechnology is the integrated use of biochemistry, microbiology, and engineering
sciences in order to achieve technological (industrial) application of the capabilities of
micro-organisms, cultured tissue cells.” (European Federation of Biotechnology).
3) “Biotechnology is the controlled use of biological agents, such as microorganisms or
cellular components.” (US National Science Foundation)

Bio-Technology is the use of living things especially cells and bacteria for production of
various products for benefiting human beings. It is a combination of various technologies,
applied together to living cells, including not only biology, but also subjects like
mathematics, physics, chemistry and engineering. Its application ranges from agriculture
(Animal Husbandry, Cropping system, Soil science and Soil Conservation, Plant
Physiology, Seed Technology etc and Crop Management) to industry (food, pharmaceutical,
chemical, byproducts, textiles etc.), medicine, nutrition, environmental conservation, Cell
Biology, making it one of the fastest growing fields. Biotechnology is to modify genetic
structure in animals and plants to improve them in desired way for getting beneficial
products.

Modern biotechnology provides breakthrough products and technologies to combat rare

diseases, reduce our environmental footprint, feed the hungry, use less and cleaner energy,

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and have safer, cleaner and more efficient industrial manufacturing processes. Currently,
there are :
 More than 250 biotechnology health care products and vaccines available to patients,
many for previously untreatable diseases.
 More than 13.3 million farmers around the world use agricultural biotechnology to
increase yields, prevent damage from pests and reduce farming's impact on the
environment.
 More than 50 bio-refineries are being built across North America to test and refine
technologies to produce bio-fuels and chemicals from renewable biomass, which can
help reduce greenhouse gas emissions
.
1.1 Fields in Biotechnology
Famous biotechnological fields are:
 Genetic Engineering
Genetic engineering, also called genetic modification, is the direct manipulation of an
organism's genome using biotechnology.
Genes are the chemical blueprints that determine an organism's traits. Moving genes from
one organism to another transfers those traits. Through genetic engineering, organisms can
be given targeted combinations of new genes, and therefore new combinations of traits that
do not occur in nature and, indeed, cannot be developed by natural means. Such an
approach is different from classical plant and animal breeding, which operates through
selection across many generations for traits of interest.

 Tissue Culture
Tissue culture, a method of biological research in which fragments of tissue from an animal
or plant are transferred to an artificial environment in which they can continue to survive
and function. The cultured tissue may consist of a single cell, a population of cells, or a

9
whole or part of an organ. Cells in culture may multiply; change size, form, or function;
exhibit specialized activity (muscle cells, for example, may contract); or interact with other
cells.

 Cloning
Cloning describes the processes used to create an exact genetic replica of another cell,
tissue or organism. The copied material, which has the same genetic makeup as the original,
is referred to as a clone. The most famous\As clone was a Scottish sheep named Dolly.

1.2 Impact of Biotechnology

There are three different types of cloning:
 Gene cloning, which creates copies of genes or segments of DNA

 Reproductive cloning, which creates copies of whole animals

 Therapeutic cloning, which creates embryonic stem cells. Researchers hope to use
these cells to grow healthy tissue to replace injured or diseased tissues in the human
body.

Biotech is helping to heal the world by harnessing nature's own toolbox and using our own
genetic makeup. Biotech improves crop insect resistance, enhances crop herbicide tolerance
and facilitates the use of more environmentally sustainable farming practices.
Biotechnology is:
Reducing rates of infectious disease;
 Tailoring treatments to individuals to minimize health risks and side effects;
 Creating more precise tools for disease detection Combating serious illnesses and
everyday threats confronting the developing world
 Improving manufacturing process efficiency
 Reducing use of and reliance on petrochemicals;

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  Using bio-fuels to cut greenhouse gas emissions
 Decreasing water usage and waste generation
 Generating higher crop yields with fewer inputs;
 Lowering volumes of agricultural chemicals required by crops-limiting the run-off
of these products into the environment;
 Using biotech crops that need fewer applications of pesticides
 Developing crops with enhanced nutrition profiles that solve vitamin and nutrient s
 Producing foods free of allergens and toxins
 Improving food and crop oil content to help improve cardiovascular health.

CHAPTER TWO

2.0 Introduction to Microbial Insecticides

MICROBIAL INSECTICIDES
Microbial insecticides represent an innovative and sustainable approach to pest
management, harnessing the power of microorganisms to control insect pests. Unlike
traditional chemical pesticides, microbial insecticides are derived from naturally occurring
microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa. These biological agents offer
a targeted, environmentally friendly alternative for addressing pest-related challenges in
agriculture, public health, and beyond.

Natural Origins and Mode of Action:

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Microbial insecticides are derived from microorganisms that naturally interact with insects
in diverse ecosystems. These agents work through various modes of action, including
microbial toxins, parasitism, and disease induction. For instance, the bacterium Bacillus
thuringiensis (Bt) produces proteins toxic to certain pest insects, while entomopathogenic
fungi such as Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae infect insects, leading to
their demise.

Benefits and Sustainability:

The use of microbial insecticides offers several key benefits. Their targeted nature means
they pose minimal risk to non-target organisms, including beneficial insects, birds, and
mammals. Furthermore, these products often have a high degree of specificity, impacting
only the targeted pests while preserving natural predator-prey relationships. This precision
reduces the development of resistance in target pests, contributing to long-term
sustainability in pest management strategies.

Regulatory Framework and Safety:

The regulatory oversight of microbial insecticides is rigorous, ensuring their safety and
environmental compatibility. Authorities such as the Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) in the United States and equivalent bodies globally evaluate these products for safety
and efficacy before approval. This process includes assessing their ecological impact,
human health risks, and compatibility with integrated pest management strategies.

Potential Applications:
Microbial insecticides find applications across diverse sectors. In agricultural settings, they
play a vital role in organic farming, integrated pest management programs, and in
reducing the reliance on conventional chemical pesticides. Beyond agriculture, these bio-
based pest management tools have applications in public health, forestry, and urban pest

12
control, contributing to sustainable and environmentally conscious pest management
practices.
Future Perspectives:
As the global emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices continues to grow, the
potential for microbial insecticides to play a pivotal role in pest management becomes
increasingly apparent. With ongoing research and innovation, there's a wealth of potential
for expanding the utility and efficacy of microbial insecticides, making them an integral
part of sustainable pest management strategies.

In the pursuit of sustainable and environmentally friendly pest control, microbial

insecticides hold significant promise, reflecting the powerful synergy between
biotechnology and ecological sustainability.

2.1 Importance of Microbial Insecticides

Microbial insecticides play a crucial role in sustainable pest management for several
reasons:

1. Environmental safety: Microbial insecticides are derived from naturally occurring

microorganisms and have a low impact on non-target organisms, including beneficial
insects, wildlife, and the environment. This makes them an important tool for reducing the
ecological footprint of pest control.

2. Target specificity: Microbial insecticides often target specific pests, such as certain
species of insects, while leaving non-target organisms unharmed. This specificity helps to
preserve beneficial insects and natural predators, contributing to the overall balance of
ecosystems.

3. Resistance management: Over-reliance on chemical insecticides can lead to the

development of insecticide resistance in pest populations. Microbial insecticides offer an

13
alternative mode of action, helping to diversify pest control methods and reduce the risk of
resistance development.

4. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Microbial insecticides are a key component of IPM
programs, which aim to minimize the use of chemical pesticides and promote sustainable
pest management practices. By integrating microbial insecticides with other control
methods, such as cultural, biological, and physical controls, IPM strategies can be more
effective and environmentally friendly.

5. Public health considerations: Many chemical insecticides can have negative impacts on
human health and safety. Microbial insecticides provide an important alternative for
controlling disease-carrying insects, such as mosquitoes, while minimizing risks to human
health and the environment.

Overall, microbial insecticides are important tools in modern pest management, offering
effective, environmentally responsible, and sustainable options for controlling pests while
minimizing harm to non-target organisms and the ecosystem.

2.2 Production of Microbial Insecticides

Microbial insecticides are a type of bio-pesticide that use microorganisms such as bacteria,
fungi, and viruses to control insect pests. The production of microbial insecticides involves
biotechnological processes to cultivate and formulate these microorganisms for use in pest
management.

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The production process typically begins with the isolation and selection of specific strains
of microorganisms that have insecticidal properties. These strains are then cultured and
propagated in large-scale fermentation tanks under controlled conditions to maximize their
growth and production of insecticidal compounds. Below is an overview of the production
of microbial insecticides with a focus on biotechnological processes:

1. Isolation and Selection of Microbial Strains: The production process begins with the
isolation and selection of specific strains of microorganisms that exhibit insecticidal
properties. This involves screening various environmental samples to identify potential
candidates with the desired insecticidal activity.

2. Large-Scale Fermentation: Once suitable microbial strains have been identified, they are
cultured and propagated in large-scale fermentation tanks under controlled conditions.
This process aims to maximize the growth and production of insecticidal compounds by the
microorganisms.

3. Extraction and Formulation: After reaching sufficient biomass levels, the microbial
cultures are harvested and processed to extract the active insecticidal compounds. These
compounds are then formulated into various types of products such as liquid sprays, dusts,
granules, or baits, depending on the target pest and application method.

4. Biotechnological Enhancement: Biotechnological techniques are employed to

enhance the efficacy and stability of microbial insecticides. This may involve genetic
engineering to improve the insecticidal properties of the microorganisms or the

15
development of novel formulations to improve their shelf life and performance under
different environmental conditions.

Overall, the production of microbial insecticides involves a combination of microbiology,

fermentation technology, and biotechnology to harness the natural insecticidal properties
of microorganisms for sustainable pest control.

2.3 Selection of Microbial Strains

The selection of microbial strains for various biotechnological applications, including the
production of microbial insecticides, involves several key considerations:

1. Target Pest Specificity: The selected microbial strains should exhibit insecticidal activity
against the target pests while being harmless to non-target organisms, including beneficial
insects and other wildlife.

2. Efficacy and Persistence: The strains should demonstrate high efficacy in controlling the
target pests and have the ability to persist in the environment to provide long-lasting pest
control.

3. Safety: Safety considerations are essential, and the selected strains should not pose a risk
to human health, animals, or the environment.

4. Environmental Compatibility: Microbial strains that are compatible with sustainable

agricultural practices and have minimal impact on the environment are preferred.

16
5. Production and Formulation: The selected strains should be amenable to large-scale
production and formulation into effective microbial insecticide products.

6. Regulatory Approval: Consideration should be given to whether the selected strains meet
regulatory requirements for use as microbial insecticides in the target markets.

These considerations guide the selection process for microbial strains to ensure that the
resulting microbial insecticides are effective, safe, and environmentally friendly.

2.4 Fermentation, Culture techniques, Formulating and Packaging

Fermentation, culture techniques, formulating, and packaging of microbial insecticides
involve a series of processes to produce effective and safe products for pest control. Here's
an overview of these key aspects:

1. Fermentation:
- Fermentation is the process by which microorganisms such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)
are grown in large-scale bioreactors to produce insecticidal proteins.
- The fermentation process involves optimizing conditions such as temperature, pH,
oxygen levels, and nutrient supply to promote the growth and expression of insecticidal
proteins by the microbial strain.

2. Culture Techniques:
- Culture techniques play a crucial role in maintaining and propagating the selected
microbial strains used for insecticide production.
- Techniques such as batch culture, continuous culture, and fed-batch culture are
employed to ensure optimal growth and protein expression by the microbial strains.

3. Formulating:

17
 - Formulating microbial insecticides involves incorporating the active ingredients
(insecticidal proteins) into suitable carriers or formulations for application.
- This may include formulating the microbial insecticides into wettable powders, granules,
emulsifiable concentrates, or other formulations that ensure stability and efficacy during
storage and application.

4. Packaging:
- Packaging of microbial insecticides is essential to maintain their viability and
effectiveness during storage and transportation.
- Proper packaging materials and techniques are used to protect the product from
environmental factors such as moisture, light, and temperature fluctuations.

Overall, these processes require careful optimization and quality control to ensure the
production of high-quality microbial insecticides that are effective, safe, and practical for
pest management in agriculture and public health.

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 CHAPTER THREE
3.0 Application of Microbial Insecticides on Target pests and host range

Microbial insecticides, such as those based on Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and other
microbial organisms, are used to control a wide range of insect pests in agricultural,
forestry, and public health settings. These microbial insecticides have specific modes of
action that target certain pests while being relatively safe for non-target organisms. Here's
how they are applied and their host range:

1. Target Pests:
- Microbial insecticides are effective against a variety of insect pests, including
caterpillars, beetles, mosquitoes, flies, and other insect species.
- Bt-based insecticides are particularly effective against caterpillars of moths and
butterflies, such as corn earworm, cabbage looper, gypsy moth, and mosquito larvae.

2. Application Methods:
- Microbial insecticides can be applied using different methods, including spraying,
dusting, seed treatment, and incorporation into baits.
- For agricultural use, microbial insecticides are often applied using conventional
sprayers or aerial application equipment to cover the target crop or area.

3. Host Range:
- One of the advantages of microbial insecticides is their narrow host range, meaning they
are specific to certain insect species and do not harm non-target organisms such as
beneficial insects, birds, mammals, and humans.
- For example, Bt-based insecticides are highly specific to certain insect orders such as
Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), Diptera (flies), and Coleoptera (beetles), while being
safe for most other organisms.

19
4. Environmental Considerations:
- Microbial insecticides are considered environmentally friendly due to their specificity
and low impact on non-target organisms.
- Their application can be part of integrated pest management (IPM) programs, which
aim to minimize environmental impact and reduce reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides.

Overall, the application of microbial insecticides on target pests involves careful

consideration of the specific pest species, the appropriate application method, and the
potential impact on non-target organisms. When used responsibly, microbial insecticides
can provide effective pest control while minimizing adverse effects on the environment.

3.1 Mode of Action and Methods of Application of Microbial Insecticides

The mode of action of microbial insecticides involves the use of living microorganisms or
their metabolic products to control insect pests. There are several different types of
microbial insecticides, each with its own unique mode of action. Some common types of
microbial insecticides and their modes of action include:

1. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): Bt produces protein crystals during sporulation that are toxic
to specific insect larvae when ingested. These proteins, known as δ-endotoxins, bind to
receptors in the insect gut, leading to gut paralysis and ultimately death.

2. Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae: These entomopathogenic fungi infect

insects through the attachment of spores to the insect cuticle. Once attached, the spores
germinate and penetrate the insect's cuticle, leading to internal colonization and eventual
death.

3. Nosema locustae: This microsporidian parasite infects grasshoppers and locusts, causing
disease and reducing their feeding and reproductive capabilities.

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Methods of application for microbial insecticides can vary depending on the specific
product and target pest. Common methods of application include:

1. Spraying: Microbial insecticides can be applied as sprays using conventional spraying

equipment, such as backpack sprayers or tractor-mounted sprayers. This method is
suitable for treating large areas and can be used to target flying or crawling insect pests.

2. Dusting: Dust formulations of microbial insecticides can be applied using dusters or

blowers, particularly for treating areas where liquid sprays may not be suitable.

3. Seed Treatment: Some microbial insecticides can be applied directly to seeds before
planting to protect emerging plants from soil-dwelling insect pests.

4. Bait Stations: Microbial insecticides can be incorporated into bait stations or traps to
target specific pests, such as ants or cockroaches.

5. Soil Application: For soil-dwelling pests, microbial insecticides can be applied directly to
the soil to control larvae or pupae.

It is important to carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding the

application of microbial insecticides to ensure effective pest control while minimizing
environmental impact and non-target effects. Additionally, proper storage and handling of
microbial insecticides are essential to maintain their efficacy and safec Essfv SC ty.

3.2 Environmental consideration and Safety

Microbial insecticides are generally considered to be environmentally friendly and safe
when used according to the manufacturer's instructions. Here are some key environmental
considerations and safety aspects associated with microbial insecticides:

21
1. Environmental Impact: Microbial insecticides are often considered to have a lower
environmental impact compared to synthetic chemical insecticides. They typically have
specific modes of action that target particular pests, reducing the risk of harming non-
target organisms such as beneficial insects, birds, and mammals.

2. Non-Toxicity to Humans and Pets: Many microbial insecticides have low toxicity to
humans and pets when used as directed. However, it is important to follow safety
precautions outlined in the product label, such as wearing personal protective equipment
during application.

3. Biodegradability: Microbial insecticides are often biodegradable, which means they

break down into harmless substances over time. This reduces their persistence in the
environment and minimizes the risk of bioaccumulation in the food chain.

4. Resistance Management: Microbial insecticides can help in managing resistance

development in insect pest populations. Because they have unique modes of action, they can
be used in rotation with other pest control methods to reduce the likelihood of pests
developing resistance.

5. Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Microbial insecticides are often an integral part of
IPM programs, which aim to minimize the use of synthetic chemical pesticides and
promote sustainable pest management practices.

6. Environmental Regulations: Regulatory agencies, such as the Environmental Protection

Agency (EPA) in the United States, evaluate and register microbial insecticides based on
their safety and environmental impact. Products approved for use have undergone
rigorous testing to ensure their safety for humans, animals, and the environment.

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7. Application Precautions: While microbial insecticides are generally safe, it is
important to use them responsibly. This includes following application rates, avoiding drift
onto non-target areas, and taking precautions to protect pollinators and other beneficial
organisms.

CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 Consequences of Microbial Insecticides, Advantages and Disadvantages
Consequences of microbial insecticides:

Advantages:
1. Environmentally friendly: Microbial insecticides are derived from naturally occurring
microorganisms, making them less harmful to the environment compared to chemical
insecticides.
2. Target-specific: Microbial insecticides often target specific pests, minimizing harm to
non-target organisms such as beneficial insects, birds, and mammals.
3. Reduced resistance: Microbial insecticides work through multiple modes of action,
making it more difficult for pests to develop resistance compared to chemical insecticides.
4. Short persistence: Microbial insecticides tend to break down more quickly in the
environment, reducing their impact on non-target organisms and ecosystems.

Disadvantages:
1. Slower action: Microbial insecticides may take longer to show results compared to
chemical insecticides, which can be a disadvantage in situations where rapid pest control is
necessary.
2. Limited effectiveness: Some microbial insecticides may have limited effectiveness against
certain pests or under specific environmental conditions.
3. Application challenges: Microbial insecticides may require specific application methods
or conditions to be effective, which can be challenging for some users.

23
4. Regulatory hurdles: The registration and approval process for microbial insecticides can
be more complex and time-consuming compared to chemical insecticides, limiting their
availability and use.

In conclusion, while microbial insecticides offer several advantages such as environmental

friendliness and reduced resistance, they also have disadvantages such as slower action and
limited effectiveness in certain situations. It's important to carefully consider these factors
when choosing a pest control method..

4.1 Impact on Non-target Organism

Microbial insecticides, such as those based on Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and other
microbial organisms, are generally considered to have a low impact on non-target
organisms due to their specificity. Here are some key points regarding their impact on non-
target organisms:

1. Specificity:
- Microbial insecticides often have a narrow host range, meaning they are highly specific
to certain insect species or groups. For example, Bt-based insecticides are effective against
caterpillars of moths and butterflies, as well as mosquito larvae, while being safe for most
other organisms.
- This specificity reduces the likelihood of harming non-target organisms, such as
beneficial insects (e.g., bees, ladybugs), birds, mammals, and humans.

2. Environmental Impact:
- Microbial insecticides are generally considered environmentally friendly due to their
targeted nature and low impact on non-target organisms.
- When used according to label instructions and best practices, microbial insecticides are
less likely to cause harm to beneficial insects and other non-target organisms compared to
broad-spectrum chemical pesticides.

24
3. Integrated Pest Management (IPM):
- Microbial insecticides can be integrated into IPM programs, which aim to minimize
environmental impact and reduce reliance on synthetic chemical pesticides.
- In IPM, microbial insecticides are often used in combination with other pest control
methods, such as cultural practices, biological control agents, and monitoring techniques,
to manage pests while minimizing harm to non-target organisms.

4. Risk Assessment:
- Before the registration and use of microbial insecticides, regulatory agencies typically
conduct risk assessments to evaluate their potential impact on non-target organisms and
the environment.
- These assessments consider factors such as the toxicity of the microbial insecticide to
non-target organisms, exposure levels, and potential risks associated with its use.

While microbial insecticides are generally considered safe for non-target organisms when
used properly, it is important for applicators and users to follow label instructions and
guidelines to minimize unintended effects on beneficial insects and other non-target species.
Additionally, ongoing research and monitoring are important to ensure that the use of
microbial insecticides continues to be compatible with environmental conservation efforts.

4.2 Regulatory aspect and Public perception

When it comes to the regulatory aspects and public perception of microbial insecticides, it's
a multifaceted landscape that intersects science, regulation, and public opinion. Let's delve
into both aspects to better understand how these microbial insecticides are viewed and
regulated.

Regulatory Aspects:

25
1. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Regulation: In the United States, the EPA
plays a critical role in the regulation of microbial insecticides. Microbial insecticides, being
biological in nature, undergo rigorous evaluation to ensure they are safe for the
environment, non-target organisms, and human health. The EPA sets stringent guidelines
for registration, labeling, and use restrictions of these products.

2. Specific Registration and Labeling Requirements: Microbial insecticides need to

demonstrate efficacy, safety, and a lack of unreasonable adverse effects to gain EPA
registration. Manufacturers must provide comprehensive data on the product's
composition, toxicological profiles, environmental fate, and behavior in order to meet
regulatory standards.

3. Precautionary Measures and Post-Market Surveillance: Once approved, microbial

insecticides are subject to ongoing scrutiny and monitoring. The EPA imposes strict label
requirements outlining precautions for use, application rates, re-entry intervals, and
disposal guidelines. Manufacturers and end-users are responsible for adhering to these
guidelines.

4. International Regulatory Variations: It's essential to consider that regulatory

frameworks for microbial insecticides can vary internationally. Different countries have
their own regulatory agencies and approval processes. Understanding these variations is
crucial for companies seeking to introduce microbial insecticides in global markets.

Public Perception:

1. Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Image: Microbial insecticides are often perceived

favorably by the public due to their eco-friendly and sustainable nature. Unlike synthetic
chemical pesticides, microbial insecticides are considered a biological alternative that poses
minimal harm to non-target organisms and the environment.

26
2. Safety Concerns and Misconceptions: Despite their favorable image, some segments of
the public may harbor concerns about the safety and effectiveness of microbial insecticides.
Education and transparent communication are crucial to address any misconceptions and
build trust in these products.

3. Role of Agriculture and Food Security: Public attitudes toward microbial insecticides are
often influenced by their perceived role in promoting sustainable agriculture and food
security. Highlighting their targeted, low impact nature and potential contribution to
integrated pest management can help garner public support.

4. Awareness and Consumer Education: Communicating the benefits of microbial

insecticides, their mode of action, and their potential to reduce reliance on conventional
chemical pesticides is essential for shaping public perception. Clear and accessible
information about their safety and the science behind their efficacy can foster public
acceptance.

Understanding the regulatory frameworks and public sentiment surrounding microbial

insecticides is pivotal for the successful development, approval, and adoption of these bio-
based pest management tools. By navigating these complexities, stakeholders can help
ensure the responsible use and wider acceptance of microbial insecticides as part of
sustainable pest management strategies..

27
 CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 Conclusion
In conclusion, microbial insecticides represent a promising avenue for sustainable pest
management, blending the benefits of biological solutions with targeted pest control.

From a regulatory standpoint, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other
international regulatory bodies play a critical role in ensuring the safety, efficacy, and
environmental compatibility of microbial insecticides. These agencies implement rigorous
evaluation processes, setting stringent guidelines for registration, labeling, and ongoing
monitoring to mitigate potential risks to the environment, non-target organisms, and
human health.

In terms of public perception, microbial insecticides are generally regarded favorably for
their eco-friendly and sustainable attributes. Despite this, it's essential to address any safety
concerns and misconceptions through transparent communication, education, and
highlighting the benefits of these products. Emphasizing their role in sustainable
agriculture, integrated pest management, and reduced reliance on conventional chemical
pesticides can contribute to shaping a positive public perception.

In both regulatory and public realms, there is a clear need for awareness, education, and
transparent communication to foster the responsible use and wider acceptance of microbial
insecticides. By navigating these frameworks and perceptions, stakeholders can help pave
the way for the continued development and adoption of microbial insecticides as valuable
tools in sustainable pest management strategies.

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 5.1 References
Reference: Crickmore, N., Zeigler, D. R., Feitelson, J., Schnepf, E., Van Rie, J., & Lereclus,
D. (1998). Revision of the nomenclature for the Bacillus thuringiensis pesticidal crystal
proteins. Microbiology and Molecular Biology Reviews.

Reference: Glare, T. R., & O'Callaghan, M. (2000). Bacillus thuringiensis: biology, ecology
and safety. John Wiley & Sons.

Reference: Pandey, A., Soccol, C. R., & Mitchell, D. (2000). New developments in solid state
fermentation: I-bioprocesses and products. Process Biochemistry.

Reference: Janssen, A., Vangronsveld, J., & Schwab, P. (2010). Biotechnological potential
of endophytic microorganisms. Current Opinion in Biotechnology.

Reference: Vasilakos, S., & Chrysayi-Tokousbalides, M. (2017). Microbial control of insect

pests using insecticides of microbial origin. Recent Advances in Entomological Research:
From Molecular Biology to Pest Management, 87-116.

Reference: Sharma, P., & Sharma, S. (2017). Microbial insecticides: An eco-friendly

approach for the control of insect pests. In Microbial Insecticides: Principles and
Applications (pp. 1-22). Springer, Singapore.

Reference: Dhillon, M. K., & Singh, R. (2016). Biotechnological advances in microbial

insecticides.

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