Florida Keys residents object to release of genetically modified mosquitoes?

The Florida Keys Mosquito Control District (FKMCD) is taking action to release genetically modified mosquitoes into the Florida Keys, but over 100,000 residents have signed a petition against the project.

Key West realtor and animal rights activist Mila de Mier created the petition claiming the UK-based biotech company Oxitec “is trying to use a loophole by applying to the FDA for an ‘animal bug patent.’ This means these mutant mosquitoes could be released at any point against the wishes of locals and the scientific community.”

The petition claims Oxitec could release the mosquitoes at any time against the requests of local residents, but Parry argues, “it’s not us that want to make a release,

Doyle said that the Mosquito Control District canceled plans for a release last November after learning that the USDA would not regulate the technology. He said the the District has no plans to immediately release the mosquitoes.

“When we receive a permit from the regulatory authorities, we will reconvene to decide if this strategy will be an option for Key West. We have no timeline presently,” Doyle said.