Bacterial Microbial Pesticides
Bacterial microbial pesticides mainly include Bacillus thuringiensis and Bacillus spheroidosa. These bacteria produce insecticidal toxins that have a significant lethal effect on specific pests. For example, Bacillus thuringiensis can be used to control the larvae of lepidopteran pests such as the corn borer and diamondback moth.
Fungal Microbial Pesticides
Fungal microbial pesticides mainly include Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae. These fungi invade and multiply within the insect's body, leading to the pest's death. Beauveria bassiana is a widely used fungal pesticide used to control various pests such as pine caterpillars and corn borers.
Viral Microbial Pesticides
Viral microbial pesticides are mainly nucleopolyhedroviruses. These viruses are highly specific, infecting only specific pests and are safe for humans, livestock, and natural enemies. After application, the virus replicates extensively within the pest's body, leading to its death. Nucleopolyhedroviruses are widely used to control pests such as the cotton bollworm and the beet armyworm.
