Evaluation of Bacillus amyloliquefaciens and Bacillus subtilis as Biolarvicides Against Aedes aegypti (L.)
J. Camba, S. Lim, S. Lunas, A. Rosete, K. Santos, E. Matira, D. Amalin, and J. Janairo (37-44)
Abstract
The excessive use of persistent, nonspecific, synthetic insecticides has resulted in the development of resistance in insect vectors. Alternative methods for controlling vectors have thus been sought to reduce reliance on synthetic insecticides and minimize their impact on the environment and human health. Here, we report the evaluation of Bacillus subtilis and B. amyloliquefaciens as alternative biolarvicides for the control of Aedes aegypti, the primary vector of the dengue virus. Using World Health Organization protocols on laboratory testing of larvicides, treatments with both bacterial isolates showed significant larval mortalities as compared to negative controls. Increasing mortality was likewise observed, which may be attributed to increased production of larvicidal compounds during bacterial growth. Blood agar plate and drop collapse assays confirmed that the two isolates could produce biosurfactants which may be attributed to the observed larvicidal activity. These results feature the potential of these bacterial species as alternative control agents against vector mosquitoes.