What does BTI stand for in the context of mosquito control?

In the context of mosquito control, BTI stands for Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis. This is a type of bacteria that is specifically used as a biological pesticide against mosquito larvae. The active substance produced by BTI targets the gut of certain insects, particularly those in the Diptera order, which includes mosquitoes. When these larvae ingest BTI, it leads to the formation of toxins that disrupt their digestive system, ultimately leading to their death.

This method of mosquito control is favored because it is environmentally friendly, affecting only the targeted larvae and leaving other non-target organisms unharmed. By employing BTI, mosquito control programs can significantly reduce populations and mitigate the spread of mosquito-borne diseases while maintaining ecological balance. The other options refer to variations of the bacteria that either do not exist or are not relevant in the context of mosquito control, making Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis the correct choice.