Genetics: Analysis and Principles 5th Edition by Robert Brooker

Exercise 15

Bacillus thuringiensis makes toxins that kill insects. This toxin must be applied several times during the growth season to prevent insect damage. As an alternative to repeated applications, one strategy is to apply bacteria directly to leaves. However, B. thuringiensis does not survive very long in the field. Other bacteria, such as Pseudomonas syringae , do survive. Propose a way to alter P. syringae so that it could be used as an insecticide. Discuss advantages and disadvantages of this approach compared with the repeated applications of the insecticide from B. thuringiensis.