Keep up to date with SOPFIM’s activities and the current epidemic by consulting the “Press releases and documentation” section.
Learn About
What is the spruce budworm?
The spruce budworm (SBW) is the most destructive insect of conifer stands in North America. In Quebec, the spruce budworm mainly consumes the annual foliage of the balsam fir, the white spruce and, to a lesser extent, the red spruce and black spruce.
The Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (Btk )
Btk is a bacterium naturally present in soil, water and vegetation. This bacterium was isolated from the soil for use as a biological insecticide. Its insecticidal power comes from the fact that during its growth cycle, the bacterium produces spores and crystals that are, after ingestion, transformed into a toxin. This process only has an effect on insects of the lepidopteran family. A quantity in the order of 1.5 liters per hectare is sprayed on precisely targeted forests. Registered by Health Canada, Btk Biological Insecticide is recognized worldwide for its safety towards non-target species.
Find Answers to your Questions
What are the regions affected by the spruce budworm epidemic?
+Which tree species are most vulnerable to the SBW?
+When do aerial sprays occur?
+How long will the current epidemic last?
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