A groundbreaking plan to combat disease-carrying mosquitoes in Queensland is underway, involving genetically modified male mosquitoes designed to eliminate harmful female counterparts.
Researchers from Australia’s CSIRO, in collaboration with UK-based Oxitec Ltd, are working on creating genetically engineered mosquitoes that target and reduce the population of blood-feeding female mosquitoes responsible for spreading diseases.
A parallel initiative by Macquarie University is also exploring genetically modified male mosquitoes that produce venom proteins from spiders and sea anemones in their semen. These proteins, transferred to females during mating, shorten their lifespan and help control the population.
Importantly, male mosquitoes do not bite humans, ensuring that this approach poses no direct health risks to Queensland residents.
This innovative pest control strategy comes in response to the growing spread of invasive, disease-carrying mosquito species in Queensland’s tropical areas, an issue exacerbated by climate change.
Before the modified mosquitoes can be released, the project requires approval from the federal Office of the Gene Technology Regulator, which oversees the safety and regulation of genetically modified products.
Speaking on ABC Radio, CSIRO biosecurity director Professor Brett Sutton compared the regulatory process to that of the Therapeutic Goods Administration for medicines. He emphasized that this method specifically targets disease-carrying mosquito species without harming other insects like butterflies or bees, avoiding the environmental contamination issues associated with pesticides.
If approved, this initiative could significantly reduce the impact of mosquito-borne diseases in Queensland and pave the way for sustainable pest control solutions worldwide.