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What is BT Rice?

Published in Genetically Modified Rice 2 mins read

BT rice is a type of genetically modified (GM) rice engineered to resist certain insect pests.

Understanding BT Rice

BT rice gets its name from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). This bacterium naturally produces proteins that are toxic to specific insects, particularly larvae of moths and butterflies (lepidopterans), beetles (coleopterans), and flies (dipterans), depending on the specific Bt strain and its genes.

According to research, numerous lines of genetically modified rice expressing cry genes from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) have been shown to confer resistance to lepidopterous pests of rice, such as stem borers and leaffolders. This resistance has been demonstrated under both laboratory and field conditions.

Essentially, BT rice is created by introducing these specific cry genes from Bacillus thuringiensis into the rice plant's DNA. When the target insect pest, like a stem borer, feeds on the BT rice plant, it ingests the protein produced by the cry gene. This protein becomes active in the insect's gut, disrupting its digestive system and ultimately leading to the insect's death.

How BT Technology Works in Rice

The process involves transferring specific genes from Bacillus thuringiensis into rice plants.

  • Gene Source: Specific cry genes are isolated from Bacillus thuringiensis.
  • Genetic Modification: These genes are inserted into the genome of rice plants using biotechnology techniques.
  • Protein Production: The modified rice plant then produces the Bt protein coded by the inserted cry gene in its tissues.
  • Pest Resistance: When susceptible insects feed on the plant, they ingest the Bt protein, which is toxic only to them, providing the plant with built-in resistance.

Benefits of BT Rice

The primary benefit highlighted by the research is the conferred resistance to key lepidopterous pests.

  • Reduced Pest Damage: Significant protection against damaging insects like stem borers and leaffolders.
  • Potential for Reduced Pesticide Use: By providing inherent pest resistance, BT rice can potentially reduce the need for chemical insecticides targeting these pests.
  • Improved Yields: Less pest damage can lead to healthier plants and higher crop yields.

This genetic modification allows the rice plant to defend itself against specific insect threats, offering a potential tool for sustainable pest management in rice cultivation.