US Tests GMO Flies to Fight Flesh-Eating Livestock Pest
The program could double sterile male output and cut costs as officials seek EPA approval for field trials later this year.
- Scientists at a USDA-funded facility in Panama are preparing to launch the first outdoor tests of genetically modified screwworm flies, a significant step in developing a more effective weapon against the flesh-eating parasite spreading through Central America and the United States.
- Wild screwworm flies have spread throughout Mexico and infested Texas farms, prompting officials to seek alternatives to traditional sterile insect techniques that produce both male and female flies.
- NovoFly uses genetic engineering to produce only males, allowing USDA Chief Scientist Scott Hutchins to say this will "almost instantaneously double the number of sterile flies that we put in the fight."
- Pending approval by Panamanian authorities, researchers plan to conduct initial outdoor tests later this year, followed by larger trials releasing 50,000 insects every few days in nine to 12 weeks.
- The USDA estimates outbreaks could cost livestock producers more than $700 million annually; Kerrville laboratory director Kim Lohmeyer cautioned that success is not guaranteed, stating, "It will take some time and effort.
35 Articles
35 Articles
U.S. tests GMO flies in fight against flesh-eating livestock pest
At a U.S.-funded facility in Panama, scientists are preparing to launch the first outdoor tests of genetically modified screwworm flies, a milestone in efforts to develop a more effective weapon against the flesh-eating parasite that has spread through Central America…
U.S. tests GMO flies in rush to fight flesh-eating livestock pest
At a U.S.-funded facility in Panama, scientists are preparing to launch the first outdoor tests of genetically modified screwworm flies, a milestone in efforts to develop a more effective weapon against the flesh-eating parasite that has spread through Central America and into the United States.
If you usually cross to the United States with your dog or cat, or plan to travel with your pet by air, it is important that you take into account the new sanitary requirements related to the risk of the worm sweeper, a pest that keeps on alert the authorities on both sides of the border. During a training day organized by the City of Ciudad Juárez, specialists reported that the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office (CBP) can apply for a cer…
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