Bti is discovered by Israeli scientists when they notice a large number of dead mosquito larvae in certain ponds. On analysis of the pond water, they isolate the Bti spore. It is noted at several international meetings that the malaria situation is getting worse. The Peruvian research team tries to multiply the Bti spore by fermenting it with such locally grown produce as bananas and pineapples. The idea came from the native practice of making a fermented drink from the yucca plant.
Coconuts prove to be the best option.
The strategy acknowledges the importance of community partnerships in fighting the disease. Using coconuts as incubators, three communities in northern Peru produce Bti to apply to local larvae breeding grounds.