- A Acidic pH of the insect gut directly dissolves the protective protein crystals over time
- B Alkaline pH of the insect gut along with gut proteases dissolve the crystals
- C Insect digestive enzymes acting at a neutral gut pH alone, independent of pH level
- D High temperature within the insect gut directly denatures the protective outer coat
Correct answer: B. Alkaline pH of the insect gut along with gut proteases dissolve the crystals
Explanation: The alkaline pH of the insect midgut, combined with gut proteases, dissolves the crystalline inclusions and activates the pro-toxin cry proteins into active toxins that bind to midgut epithelial cells, causing cell lysis and death.
Concept context
Microorganisms in food, medicine, sewage treatment, biocontrol, and biofertilizers