Use genetically modified insects to replace chemicals

Thousands of genetically modified insects developed by British scientists are about to be deployed to many European fields, as an alternative to chemical pesticides.

The technology of insect genetic transformation is the idea of ​​Oxitec's experts located in Oxford, who think that transgenic insects are better for the environment than spraying. Pesticides on crops. Their plan is to use a large amount of olive fly fruit (Bactrocera oleae scientific name) to destroy the same species that destroy crops in nature. Dr. Martha Koukodou, who led the experiment, said: 'Our goal is not only to control olive flies, but also to avoid harming other animals.'

Flies of transgenic olive vinegar.(Photo: Marshall W Johnson / cisr.ucr.edu)

The experimental procedure will involve releasing male flies into the environment so that they mate with the wild female, creating all females and dying from the larval stage. In theory, this approach will significantly reduce the population of fruit flies that harm olive trees, helping fruit trees without spraying chemicals. Lab tests have proven that the new strain has eliminated its opponent in less than two months. Scientists say greenhouse tests have also been completed with the same results.

The Oxitec Company, together with Spain's OpenNatur Company, has asked for permission from the local authorities to test the genetically modified organism they have called on a part of the agricultural area. If successful, follow-up tests will be carried out in Greece and Italy, and the company hopes to be able to deploy genetically modified flies on British farms. Oxitec said its technology received the support of a number of olive growers, such as Paul di Calabiana Willan in Northern Italy, who said: 'Using genetically modified insects to kill species. Harm is a necessary step towards the goal of saying no to pesticides'.

In addition to olive fruit flies, Oxitec has also transformed a diamondback butterfly genome whose larvae, called caterpillars, sabotage cabbage, broccoli and other cruciferous plants in the UK. This creature will destroy wild insects in the same way as olive flies.