Biological insecticides
- Pronunciation
- /BI-oh-loh-jik-al in-sek-ti-ˌsīdz/
- Category
- Control
- Singular
- Biological insecticide
- Plural
- Biological insecticides
Definition
Insecticides derived from natural sources such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, or other organisms. They are used to control pests by targeting their specific biological processes.
Etymology
From the Greek 'bios' meaning 'life', and Latin 'insectum' combined with 'cida' meaning 'killer'.
Example
Bacillus thuringiensis, a bacterium that produces toxins harmful to certain insect larvae, is a widely used biological insecticide.
Related Terms
- Biopesticides
- Natural insecticides
- Insecticides
- Pest control
Usage Notes
Biological insecticides are considered environmentally friendly compared to synthetic pesticides.