Re: Btk

kstoner@caes.state.ct.us
Tue, 27 Oct 1998 08:58:19 -0500 (EST)

Dear Mr. Maroc:
Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk) has been widely used in aerial
spraying against gypsy moths in the eastern U.S. for many years. I know there
are ongoing studies of the effect of Bt spraying on the biodiversity of forest
insects. In general, Btk is specific to Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies) and
would not have any significant effect on honey bees. The primary side effects
are on the non-target species of moths and butterflies and on the complex of
natural enemies feeding on forest Lepidoptera.

I will see if I can locate some specific references for you.

Kim Stoner
CT Agricultural Experiment Station

On Fri, 23 Oct 1998, maroc@islandnet.com (Maroc) wrote:
>We need some accurate info concerning aerial spraying of Btk. Because of
>the presence of gypsy moths on the east coast of Vancouver Island the
>provincial government has given the go-ahead for aerial spraying of Btk in
>the spring. Can some one supply information on the upside and downside of
>this Btk use? How many beneficial inseats are affected? How about honey
>bees?
>
>Don Maroc
>Cowichan Valley
>Vancouver Island
>
>
>
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