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Science 11 February 1983:
Vol. 219. no. 4585, pp. 715 - 721
DOI: 10.1126/science.219.4585.715
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Articles

Bacterial, Viral, and Fungal Insecticides

Lois K. Miller 1, A. J. Lingg 2, and Lee A. Bulla Jr. 3

1 Associate professor in the Department of Bacteriology and Biochemistry, University of Idaho, Moscow 83843
2 Professor in the Department of Bacteriology and Biochemistry, University of Idaho, Moscow 83843
3 Professor in the Department of Bacteriology and Biochemistry, University of Idaho, Moscow 83843 and is also associate dean of the College of Agriculture and associate director of the Agricultural Experiment Station at the University of Idaho, Moscow

Microorganisms that are pathogenic to insects provide a wealth of biological material that can be exploited by humans to control insect pests. Innovative applications of a few such entomopathogens are found throughout the world, but widespread commercial production of microbial insecticides awaits further studies of the biology, ecology, and pathogenicity of the agents. Genetic engineering techniques may be used to increase the virulence of these microorganisms, as well as to make them more tolerant of physical and chemical conditions and perhaps to broaden their host ranges. The use of microbial insecticides could decrease our dependence on chemical pesticides.


THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN CITED BY OTHER ARTICLES:
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S. Lindow, N. Panopoulos, and B. McFarland (1989)
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Biotechnology in Food Production and Processing.
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Prospects in plant genetic engineering.
K. Barton and W. Brill (1983)
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Science. ISSN 0036-8075 (print), 1095-9203 (online)