Treatments · Bacterial larvicides
Lysinibacillus sphaericus
A bacterial larvicide that acts on susceptible mosquito larvae rather than biting adults.
Updated October 3, 2026 · Educational ingredient reference
Quick reference
- Chemical family: Bacterial larvicides.
- Example forms: Granules, Powder, Other label-specific formulations.
- Example target groups: Mosquito larvae.
- Use context: Only water habitats permitted by the exact label.
- Targets and forms vary by product. The exact label governs permitted pests, sites and methods.
What is it?
Lysinibacillus sphaericus, also called Bacillus sphaericus, is a bacterium used in mosquito larvicides. Larvae ingest bacterial spores that affect the gut.
Where does it fit?
CDC lists it among bacterial larvicides. It works on some mosquito species but does not work on Aedes aegypti. It is not interchangeable with Bti and does not kill biting adults already flying.
What cautions matter?
Remove water when possible first. Water-site permission, mosquito species and formulation matter. Do not infer drinking-water permission from the bacterial ingredient, and do not treat public water without the required authorization.
What governs use?
The current product label controls permitted pests, sites, placement, protective equipment and restrictions. This is an educational ingredient reference, not a recipe, product endorsement or statement of Texas registration.