ITI introduces organic bacteria to control dengue

Chaminda PERERA

The Industrial Technology Institute of Sri Lanka yesterday introduced Bacillus Thuriengensis bacteria which is capable of destroying dengue, filaria and malaria mosquito larvae after years of research.

This environment-friendly and organic bacteria was developed by utilising 100 percent local expertise. It is a co-product by the ITI and Bio Power Lanka (Private) company.

Bacillus Thuriengensis has proved effective in destroying the dengue, filaria and malaria larvae after an extensive experiments in the laboratories and field research.

According to the official of the Plant Research and Technology Unit of the ITI, Dr. Radhika Samarasekera, this bacteria variety could be used as a bio controller.

He said the pesticide composed of BT would target malaria, dengue and filaria larvae and the institute is in the process of developing the bacteria cultivation method.

This bacteria was developed by a team of researchers headed by Senior Research officer of the ITI, Dr. Radhika Samarasekera.

Science and Technology Minister Prof. Tissa Vitharana and Presidential Secretary Lalith Weeratunga were also present.