Florida mosquitoes: 750 million genetically modified insects to be released
Local officials in Florida have approved the release of 750 million mosquitoes that have been genetically modified to reduce local populations.
The aim is to reduce the number of mosquitoes that carry diseases like dengue or the Zika virus.
The green-lighting of a pilot project after years of debate drew a swift outcry from environmental groups, who warned of unintended consequences.
One group condemned the plan as a public "Jurassic Park experiment".
Activists warn of possible damage to ecosystems, and the potential creation of hybrid, insecticide-resistant mosquitoes.
( Collapse )Would it be wrong to eradicate mosquitoes?
The mosquito is the most dangerous animal in the world, carrying diseases that kill one million people a year. Now the Zika virus, which is carried by mosquitoes, has been linked with thousands of babies born with brain defects in South America. Should the insects be wiped out?
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