Oxitech has begun to alter the genes of mosquitos, specifically Aedes aegypti's, so that their offspring dies before it reaches adulthood. Since April of 2015, this modified mosquito has been released in a neighborhood in Brazil, with the population being around 5000, to test this theory. The results were significant, where by the end of 2015, Oxitech observed a 82% decrease in mosquito larvae.
Although, this process still requires some more research and testing, this is a great step forward in eradicating the worlds deadliest animal.
Although this would be great for humans and obviously decrease the spread of diseases like west nile and malaria, mosquitos are a main source of food, amongst other insects) for many amphibians. Without mosquitos, the populations of other insects may be effected
ReplyDelete