Bacillus
thuringiensis or better known as BT is a bacteria used as an
insecticide for several types of crops. Most commonly used
in corn and beans to control pest. The BT bacteria effects
the lining of the gut in certain types of young insects such
as the European Corn Borer. The bacterium produces a
crystalline toxin that kills the cells which line the gut.
Unlike pesticides that effect the nervous system BT must be
ingested by the insects, and must be ingested at a young
age. Because the way most insects grow only young bugs in
the caterpillar stage have gut linings thin enough for BT to
punch holes through.
You may be
wondering if BT will eat holes in you or your dogs stomach
if it accidentally eats some corn sprayed with the bacteria.
The answer is no. It has virtually no effect on humans ,
pets , livestock , or even honeybees. Although harmless
butterflies and moths will be effected , researchers say if
BT is kept away from areas that serve as habitats for these
species then the general population will not be noticeably
changed. BT falls dead to the ground without multiplying
after 3-5 days of sunlight and other microbial
degradation.