News > Florida mosquitoes: 750 million genetically modified insects to be released

Florida mosquitoes: 750 million genetically modified insects to be released

22/08/2020 05:10 PM | Click to read full article

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".

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