The gene encoding the coleopteran-specific insect control protein from Bacillus thuringiensis var. tenebrionis was isolated and characterized.  When expressed in either E. coli or P. fluorescens the gene directs the production of biologically active insect control protein that is lethal to Colorado potato beetle.  The gene contains two functional translational initiation codons in the same reading frame leading to the production of both the full length protein and an N-terminal truncated form.  The gene has been engineered to produce each of these two proteins separately, and each is active against Colorado potato beetle.  Native crystals from B.t. var. tenebrionis were found to contain five distinct proteins derived from this single gene either as primary translation products or the result of proteolysis.  Comparison of this gene to a lepidopteran-specific B.t. gene revealed only limited regions of homology.