BT (Bacillus thuringiensis)

BT, Bacillus thuringiensis var. aizawai, is a biological control agent used to prevent wax moth infestations in stored honey bee combs. BT is a bacterium that produces a toxin specific to wax moth larvae. BT products are applied to stored combs as a preventative spray or powder. When wax moth larvae ingest BT, the toxin disrupts their gut, leading to death. BT is safe for honey bees and humans and is approved for organic beekeeping. It is a preventative measure and should be applied before wax moth infestations become established. BT is a commercial solution and is available as sprays or powders. BT spray or powder is the primary equipment needed for application.