How do insect pathogens like Bacillus thuringiensis work?

Insect pathogens like Bacillus thuringiensis function primarily by sabotaging the insect's digestive processes. When ingested, the spores of Bacillus thuringiensis produce toxins that specifically target the gut of certain insects. These toxins create pores in the gut lining, leading to the inability to properly absorb nutrients and causing severe damage. As the infection progresses, this disruption of the digestive system ultimately results in the insect's death.

The mechanisms behind insect pathogens are tailored specifically to attack the biological processes of their target insects, making them effective biocontrol agents. The outcome is not just an inhibition of feeding but a more critical failure of the normal digestive function which is essential for survival.

This focus on digestion and the resulting physiological failure set Bacillus thuringiensis apart from other pest control methods that may target different systems, such as the nervous system or act purely as repellents. Hence, the understanding of how these pathogens operate is vital for effective pest control strategies.