Genetically Engineered Mosquitoes: Do They Really Help Reduce Mosquito Populations?

Scientists are actively looking for ways to reduce mosquito populations. Recently, they may have found a new solution to achieve their desired result: genetically engineered mosquitoes.

What Are Genetically Engineered Mosquitoes?

Genetically engineered or genetically modified mosquitoes are used to reduce the populations of other mosquito communities. To date, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has authorized the release of genetically engineered Aegypti mosquitoes in Florida and Texas. From here, local mosquito control programs can evaluate the effectiveness of genetically engineered mosquitoes in reducing mosquito populations.

How Do Genetically Engineered Mosquitoes Work?

Male genetically engineered mosquitoes carry a gene that can kill female offspring. When these mosquitoes are released into an environment, they mate with wild females. In these instances, the female offspring will die before they can reproduce. Alternatively, the male offspring will carry the gene and pass it on to half of their progeny. As each generation of mosquitoes mates, more females die.

Are Genetically Engineered Mosquitoes Effective in Reducing Mosquito Populations?

In one study of genetically engineered mosquitoes, researchers collected more than 22,000 eggs from the traps and reported that all females that inherited the lethal gene died before reaching adulthood. They also discovered that the gene was present in the wild population for two to three months, roughly the equivalent of three generations of mosquito offspring.

Can You Use Genetically Engineered Mosquitoes for Mosquito Control?

Research is underway to determine the effectiveness of using genetically engineered mosquitoes to reduce mosquito populations. There is also a great deal of data collecting to determine if there are other impacts on the local ecosystem. At this point, there's no telling if or when there will be widespread use of genetically engineered mosquitoes for mosquito control.

What Are the Best Ways to Reduce the Mosquito Population on My Property?

There are many simple and effective ways to reduce the mosquito population on your property outside of using genetically modified mosquitoes. These include:

• Remove standing water from outdoor spaces.
• Get rid of grass clippings, leaves, and other debris on your lawn.
• Clean out gutters and check irrigation systems for leaks.
• Turn over birdbaths, plastic toys, and any other items that can collect water.
• Remove any tarps stretched over boats, sports equipment, or other outdoor items if these tarps aren't taut; they can collect water.

Professional Mosquito Control

Along with these tips, you can partner with a mosquito control company that can apply a barrier treatment to your property. The best mosquito control company learns about your property. It then helps you develop a plan to reduce the mosquito population. Next, the company can apply a mosquito barrier treatment to reduce mosquitoes. Choose Mosquito Squad of Southeastern Massachusetts to reduce mosquitoes by up to 90%.

The Bottom Line on Controlling Mosquito Populations

It can seem challenging to get rid of mosquitoes on your property. But, with the right approach to mosquito control, you can effectively reduce the mosquito population.

Help yourself reduce mosquitoes on your property by following the 7 Ts of mosquito control. And if you're ready to enjoy your yard without getting feasted on by mosquitoes, call our team today to request a free quote for mosquito control treatment.