Nothing puts a damper on outdoor plans quicker than pesky mosquitoes. In fact, the very idea anyone would fight a solution to rid the world of mosquitoes is hard to imagine. However, many environmentalists are speaking up against plans to kill off Florida mosquitoes using a genetically modified variety to infiltrate their breeding grounds. (1)

750 Million Genetically Modified Mosquitoes

Plans to release 750 million genetically modified male mosquitoes in Florida and Texas could put an end to the spread of diseases such as dengue fever and Zika. Despite there being good reason for the release, it still has many environmentalists up in arms. (1)

Under the supervision of biotechnology company Oxitec, the release of a specially developed version of Aedes aegypti male mosquitoes can help kill the Florida mosquito population off. The special breed contains a deadly protein that is passed down to female offspring. Once passed on, the mosquitoes die, reducing the potential spread of disease. This is not necessarily a good thing according to some. (1)

Mosquitoes Plague Florida Keys

Although mass spraying of insecticides helps reduce mosquito numbers in the area, it also kills other insects including precious bees. The British-based company’s idea overcomes this issue. They announced approval to proceed with the new plan by the Florida department of agriculture and consumer services. The company will release millions of mosquitoes in the Florida Keys, an area plagued by mosquitoes thanks to its marsh-rich environment. The EPA approved the plan in Florida as well as Harris County, Texas. (1)

Conservation Groups Oppose Mosquitoes Plan

Conservation groups plan to sue the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) claiming they failed to determine the impact the plan will have on the environment. “People here in Florida do not consent to the genetically engineered mosquitoes or to being human experiments,” says Barry Wray, executive director of the Florida Keys Environmental Coalition.  (1)

Some scientists sharing concerns about the plan, are calling it a “Jurassic Park experiment.” According to Jaydee Hanson, policy director for the International Center for Technology Assessment and Center for Food Safety, it’s unclear what could go wrong. “We don’t know, because they unlawfully refused to seriously analyze environmental risks,” he says. (1)

However, those managing the trial feel there is no risk to the public as only modified male mosquitoes are being released. Males do not bite people. It seems this isn’t the main concern. (1)

A World Without Mosquitoes

Many scientists feel a world without mosquitoes would still be fine. “They don’t occupy an unassailable niche in the environment,” says entomologist Joe Conlon, of the American Mosquito Control Association in Jacksonville, Florida. “If we eradicated them tomorrow, the ecosystems where they are active will hiccup and then get on with life. Something better or worse would take over.” (2)

I guess the bottom line is that mosquitoes have existed for millions of years. As with any species, removing them from the planet will pose potential issues. While those supporting mosquito eradication feel most mosquito eaters would find other insects to eat instead, I can’t help worrying that surely would lead to different issues down the road. (2)