Enhanced Production of Bacillus Thuringiensis Israelensis using Solid State Fermentation Technique

Abstract

Vectors play an important role in disease transmission, globally. Despite various advancements in vector management, mosquitoes are still prime vectors of dreadful diseases which influences human health and economy as well. Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) is a major bacterium that produces δ-endotoxin, which can kill the certain strains of mosquito larvae. Bti based biopesticides can be used as an alternative technique to control insects. Biopesticides derived from Bti are the most prominent biological agents for selective control of insect pests. In this study we aim to produce Bti using different cost-effective medias based on the fruit, pulses and sea food waste and other such materials using solid state fermentation techniques (SSF). SSF has been described as the process that takes place in solid matrix in the absence or near absence of water, and the substrate requires less moisture to support the growth and metabolic activity of organisms. Here, in the present study we use different fruit wastes as carbon sources and other wastes as nitrogen source to optimize cost effective and efficient media for the growth and sporulation of Bti. Fruit juices of rotten fruits like pineapple, grapes, watermelon etc were used as a substrate for the production of Bti. Nitrogenous supplements like prawn peel powder, peanut meal extract, poultry manure was also used for the overproduction of Bti. Finally, the larvicidal efficiency of the novel media was also determined. This method was found to be cost effective and is functional also, and it can solve the problems caused by fruit waste accumulation. It can also reduce the problems inflicted by disease carrying vectors like mosquitoes.