A study of Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki in sustainable biotechnologies for apple and walnut crop protection

Abstract

Apple and walnut orchards are often affected by lepidopteran pests that reduce yield, impair fruit and nut quality, and decrease economic efficiency. Intensive use of synthetic insecticides has raised concerns regarding environmental contamination, pesticide residues, effects on non-target organisms, and resistant pest populations. These issues highlight the need for sustainable and biologically based alternatives. This study evaluated the relevance of Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki as a microbial bioinsecticide for apple and walnut protection, focusing on insecticidal.