Bacterial Pesticidal Proteins for Managing Whiteflies

Reduces Whitefly Population through Ingestion of Bacterial-Derived Biocontrol Proteins

Bacterial pesticidal proteins offer a method to control the sweet potato whitefly, an invasive pest affecting multiple crops. Three bacterial pesticidal proteins have been identified for their efficacy in targeting and killing whiteflies. Whiteflies are a significant agricultural pest—introduced to the United States around 1985—causing extensive damage to a wide range of host plants, including vegetables, field, and ornamental crops. The damage results from direct feeding, honeydew secretion, and the transmission of more than 400 plant viruses. This pest results in substantial economic losses, an estimated loss of $500 million in California alone and $1 billion across the U.S., adding significant production costs and reducing crop quality, ultimately lowering farm revenue.

Current methods for managing whitefly infestations have several limitations. Management relies heavily on chemical pesticides, particularly neonicotinoids. However, the development of resistance in whitefly populations and potential harm to non-target species pose serious challenges for future management of this pest. There is an urgent need for alternative strategies for integrated management.

Researchers at the University of Florida have identified bacterial pesticidal proteins to target and eliminate whiteflies. This sustainable solution offers an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional pesticides, providing effective pest control without the long-lasting environmental impact.

Application

Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)-derived proteins demonstrate toxicity, managing whitefly populations

Advantages

• Bacterial-derived proteins eliminate whiteflies, providing a sustainable management solution
• The pesticidal proteins identified provide valuable tools for producing bioengineered crops for the management of the whitefly, reducing the transmission of plant pathogenic viruse
• The bacterial-derived pesticidal proteins have high specificity, preventing negative impacts on beneficial and non-target organisms

Technology

UF researchers have developed a biocontrol method harnessing bacterial proteins to efficiently manage whitefly populations. The Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt)-derived proteins provide a sustainable approach for targeting and managing whiteflies. Bt proteins kill target pests by binding to specific receptors on the gut epithelium and forming pores in the gut. Interaction with specific receptors on the gut surface provides high specificity for Bt proteins, highlighting their potential for use against hemipteran pests.