Microbial insecticides such as the bacterium " Bacillus thuringiensis ", a naturally occurring, host-specific pathogen that affects only the larvae of lepidopterous insects is environmentally safe to use in sensitive areas such as campgrounds or along rivers or streams where it may not be desirable to use chemical insecticides.
12.
Even when presented with up to five " U . proteus " larvae, " H . zea " engages in the unique behavior, as the larvae have a higher affinity for lepidopterous prey over plant material . " H . zea " raised in a low-moisture environment has a lower pupal weight and a longer developmental time than those raised in environments of high moisture, so a nutritional benefit exists to such aggressive feeding behavior under such conditions.
