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Florida Keys Authorities Approve Release Of 750 Million Genetically Modified Mosquitoes

Why are the local authorities in Florida Keys approving the release of 750 million genetically modified mosquitoes amidst public outcry? They are doing this to eradicate deadly diseases like Zika, dengue, yellow fever and more.

 

According to a CNN report, the State and Federal government have already given the green light for this experiment. However, members of the public are still uncomfortable with this public testing.

 

Jaydee Hanson, the policy director at the International Center for Technology Assessment and Center for Food Safety, called this move a “Jurassic Park experiment”. The genetically modified mosquitoes have also been labeled several doom-themed names. “Superbug” and “Robo-Frankenstein” are just some of these names.

 

While the people of Florida Keys have the right to be apprehensive, the motive behind the experiment is actually good. The Environmental Protection Agency had approved research into modifying the genetics of male mosquitoes.

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Their aim is to create OX5034, a mosquito group that produces female mosquitoes that die in the larva stage. This is because, the mosquito species under focus, Aedes aegypti, have a dangerous female. Its male counterparts are benign and feed on nectar while the female feeds on blood and carries deadly diseases.

 

The agency had been using insecticides and even pesticides to try and control these mosquitoes but it had not been effective. Thus, they decided to turn to this new method.

 

These 750 million genetically modified male mosquitoes will mate with the deadly female of the Aedes aegypti. Their male offspring will survive and go on to keep mating with other females. However, as mentioned, the female offspring will never mature, thus, gradually reducing their number over time.

 

The researchers have tested an earlier model of these mosquitoes in Brazil, Cayman Islands, and Panama. They claim that it was successful. Now, the Environmental Protection Agency is set to release its new hybrid mosquitoes in Florida Keys.

 

It will notify State authorities three days before it releases them so that the public would be aware.

 

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Onwuasoanya Obinna

A reader of books and stringer of words. Passionate about Science and Tech. When not writing or reading he is surfing the web and Tweeting.

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