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Oct 5, 2021 · How does Btk control the spongy moth? When Btk grows, it produces spores and non-living protein crystals. When spongy moth caterpillars eat leaves that have been sprayed with Btk, the protein crystals dissolve in their digestive system and become toxic.
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Questions and answers about using Bacillus thuringiensis Kurstaki (BtK) to control spongy moth (formerly known as gypsy moth).
Also, Bt is frequently used by commercial landscapers and home gardeners for its effectiveness, low risk, and selectivity. A specific Bt strain called ‘kurstaki’ (thus Btk) is formulated as an insecticide that kills gypsy moth and other caterpillars.
Q: What is the spongy moth, and why is it a problem? A: The spongy moth (formerly called the gypsy moth) is an insect with a big appetite for oaks. In 2022 it defoliated over 9 million acres of forest in the United States and nearly 1 million acres in Michigan alone. Each caterpillar can grow up to 2 inches long and can consume up to 11 square ...
If your gypsy moth problem is more widespread than just a few trees, call the Wisconsin DNR suppression coordinator to find out about the gypsy moth suppression program. Infor-mation about this program is also available online at www.dnr.state.wi.us/org/caer/cfa/LR/gypsy/moth.html. Regional gypsy moth suppression coordinators:
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A series of two treatments are applied in early May, when caterpillars are small and most susceptible to Btk. Sprays outside of the generally infested area are applied to eliminate isolated populations of moths, thereby slowing the spread of the Lymantria dispar infestation through the state.
One option involves the use of Bt to protect tree foliage and reduce the annoyance caused by gypsy moth caterpillars during an outbreak. Bt or Btk refers to a microorganism called Bacillus Thuringeniesis var. kurstaki.