Associate Certified Entomologist (ACE) Practice Exam

From what source are spinosyns derived?

1. Plants

2. Soil bacteria

3. Synthetic chemicals

4. Animal secretions

The correct answer is: Soil bacteria

Spinosyns are derived from soil bacteria, specifically from the fermentation process of a specific bacterium known as Saccharopolyspora spinosa. This biotechnology process exploits the natural metabolites produced by the bacteria, which have insecticidal properties. The relevance of this origin is significant in the field of pest management, as it highlights the use of natural products for controlling pests, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides. The activity of spinosyns mimics that of natural insect neurotoxins, making them effective in causing paralysis and death in target insects. This makes spinosyns particularly valuable in integrated pest management programs that aim to reduce the reliance on traditional synthetic chemicals while maintaining efficacy against pests.