| P. luminescens bacteria is found in assosiciation with entomopathogenic nematode of the Heterorhabditidae family. This nematode infects many kinds of soil-dwelling insects. Upon entering into the insect, the nematode releases Pm luminescens from its intestinal tract, and this bacteria directly become pathogen to the host (insect). Thus, the bacteria is not only has symbiotic relation to entomo-fatogenic nematodes, but also become pathogenic when released from nematode into the insect blood system. The bacteria produce a insecticidal protein complex, that is lethal when fed to, or injected into the hemolymph of several insect species. |