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[quote=Anonymous]
As a research scientist, I want to spread the good word about genetically modified mosquitoes: my fellows have developed a few different types, but the one tested in Florida last year and California this year (pending final approval) are ones where the males pass on a lethal gene to female offspring, which dies as larvae and cannot bite or infect humans with diseases. Male offspring survive to pass on that female-lethal gene to future generations. Over generations of Aedis Aegypti, they *markedly* reduce the total number of that specie in locations where they are released. The specie was chosen because it's the major disease carrier for Yellow Fever, Zika and Dengue, which have appeared in subtropical regions of the US. DC is considered a subtropical region, and now has overwintering of Aedis Aegypti, despite cold winters.

International testing of this type of genetically modified mosquito showed no impact on local ecosystems, but did show a reduction in disease transmission. The lethal gene only persists for a few generations, 3-4 months in real time, so regular release of GM males have to be scheduled.

However Aedis Aegypti only represents 4% of mosquitoes. If humans want to use this technology to reduce the overall mosquito population in urban areas, then more in-depth studies will have to be done on the ecological impacts. I am ALL for it! Please support this plan!

So...
We use mosquito dunks in the gutters and have seen a slight improvement in our mosquito levels, meaning we can go from our car to our front door without the Mongol Hordes swarming in. We still can't go into the backyard at all, except my gardener husband, who apparently isn't as palatable to mosquitoes as my kids and I.[/quote]

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