Econo-efficient formulations of Bacillus thuringiensis based biopesticides

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Adverse impacts of chemical pesticides have become evident in the coming years making way for eco-friendly and sustainable biopesticides. In this context, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) based biopesticides rule the roost with almost 95% of the world pest control market. Bt has been mass produced using several synthetic and semi-synthetic media, however, cost of raw materials is one of the limiting factors in overall production account for 40 % of the total cost of production. In this regard, our research laboratory has developed and established the process based on alternative media, such as starch industry wastewater for production of Bt based biopesticides with high entomotoxicidal (insect mortality) potential. Stable liquid and powder formulation have been developed at laboratory scale which will be further assessed at pilot scale. The formulations will be compared with the industrial Bactur 421 formulations in terms of entomotoxicity and stability. The stable Bt based biopesticides (as determined by their shelf-life studies) will be developed at pilot scale and field tested in a plot in Quebec in the North coast and the results will be again compared with a newly developed industrial Bactur 421 formulation in terms of insect kill time, insect kill intensity and spray as well as number of applications. The field testing will address the largest gap of technology transfer easing the registration of alternative Bt formulations and enhancing their marketability. The project shall be carried in collaboration with Milenia Inc. (Brazil) for Bactur 421 formulation and field tests in collaboration with la Société de protection des forêts contre les insectes et maladies (SOPFIM), a company which is actively involved in the research. The successful completion of the project will result in getting the outcome on alternate formulations in terms of marketability and field efficacy also when compared with the new industrial Bactur 421 formulations. The project will provide an opportunity to train HQP (one post doc and a research assistant).