Genetically modified mosquitoes are buzzing in Florida, and these tiny pests could help humans and livestock.
A biotech company is releasing 12,000 of these altered mosquitoes in the Florida keys each week through July. The goal is for these GM pests to kill off others that carry harmful diseases for humans.
The company says it could cut down on disease and stress in livestock too! They already tested the program overseas with a 90 percent success rate. Some critics say there is not enough known about the altered bugs, and are concerned about the possible effects on human health and the environment.
Scientists have been working on developing the GM mosquito for years. NPRcaptured their work back in 2019.
Related:
Mosquitoes killing livestock in the Gulf Coast
