The foundation of AQUABAC Xt is a naturally occurring soil bacteria known as Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) that acts as a biological larvicide (biolarvicide). When applied to almost any aquatic habitat where mosquitoes and black flies breed, this microbial insecticide is highly effective against these pests in the larval stage. The liquid formulation of AQUABAC Xt is also a great choice for controlling aquatic midges, which can be quite troublesome in wastewater treatment plants and waterways.
The Bti in AQUABAC Xt works as an insecticide by producing a protein (insecticidal crystal protein – ICP) that is lethal to the pest larvae once it is ingested. This deadly process occurs rapidly after application; some will die within hours with complete larval mortality within 24 hours. Since AQUABAC Xt must be ingested by the larvae to perform as an insecticide, this product will not be effective against insect pupae and adults. Insects in the late larval stages that are no longer actively feeding are also not affected.
AQUABAC Xt is a stellar choice for those that are seeking a powerful, proven and convenient insecticide that will not harm the environment. Benefits of using AQUABAC Xt include:
It does not persist in water or soil. Its active ingredient of Bti is already found in the soil and the protein crystals it produces will separate naturally from the water and settle on the bottom. Once they settle, these crystals become food for other organisms or break down organically.
AQUABAC Xt has shown no cross resistance to chemical insecticides.
It can be used in areas where resistance to organophosphates or pyrethroids has been observed.
AQUABAC Xt is not poisonous to beneficial insects like lady bird beetles (ladybugs), dragonflies, honeybees, mayflies, damselflies, stoneflies, caddisflies, and true bugs.
Is will not harm aquatic creatures such as Crustacea (including Copepod species), oysters, shrimp, crabs, mollusks, flatworms and Amphibia.
Bti-based larvicides have been used for more than 20 years in major mosquito and black fly eradication and control programs without any harmful side effects reported.
Suggested Uses: For use as a microbial insecticide against mosquitoes, fungus gnats, nuisance flies and nuisance aquatic midges in a variety of locations where water is present. These include: man-made and natural ponds and lakes, wastewater treatment facilities, sewage lagoons, irrigation ditches, catch basins, rice fields and any standing water containing mosquito larvae in fields growing crops.
This Product Controls These Pests or Diseases: Mosquitoes, Black Flies, Fungus Gnats, nuisance flies of the Psychoda and Chironomus spp. and nuisance aquatic midges of the Chironomine family.