Alternatives for controlling insect pests in crops of agronomic interest using Bacillus thuringiensis and Brevibacillus laterosporus

The bacteria Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus thuringiensis have been the main target of research for a long time, making it necessary to identify new microorganisms capable of being used and that accompany the rapid development of biotechnology. The work aims to evaluate the efficiency of isolates of B. thuringiensis and B. laterosporus in controlling caterpillars in crops of agronomic interest. Experiments were conducted with the cultivation of Cotton, Sugarcane, Citrus, Bean, Cabbage, Maize, Soybean and Wheat in different environments to evaluate the efficiency of B. thuringiensis and B. laterosporus isolates in controlling caterpillars. Analysis of variance took place at 5% probability using the F test. Subsequently, the Scott-Knott grouping of means was used at 5% probability. The synergistic use of chemical and biological insecticides promotes satisfactory rates of pest control in crops of agronomic interest. Isolates of B. thuringiensis and B. laterosporus are efficient in controlling caterpillars when applied at the highest dosages tested.