Laboratory evaluation of shellac as ultraviolet screen for theBacillus thuringiensis var.entomocidus againstSpodoptera littoralis larvae

Shellac was evaluated as radiation protection for the bacteriumBacillus thuringiensis var.entomocidus againstSpodoptera littoralis larvae. Shellac provided excellent protection toB. thuringiensis. The efficacy of shellac in the protection of entomocidal activity ofB. thuringiensis var.entomocidus against UV irradiation has been studied. Results obtained by the absorbtion and the bioassay of residual entomocidal activity ofB. thuringiensis var.entomocidus after exposure to UV irradiation showed that shellac is an excellent photoprotective agent.