Abstract
To assess the prevalence and properties of Bacillus thuringiensis isolated from the intestines of small mammals. Bacillus thuringiensis was found in 11% of rodents and 17% of insectivores. Using PFGE of chromosomal DNA, SDS-PAGE of whole-cell proteins and biochemical tests (API system), 12 isolates and three reference strains were classified. Numerical analysis revealed 61% and 89% similarity of protein profiles and biochemical properties of the bacilli, respectively. The results of PFGE were consistent with the outcomes of the analysis of protein profiles. Although B. thuringiensis is not common in the intestines of small mammals, it is heterogeneous at the genotypic and phenotypic level. The results presented here help to explain the diversity and the ecological significance of B. thuringiensis. Future study should focus on the toxic activity of the isolated strains.
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