Australia chose to conduct trials using an insect which is genetically modified, with the purpose of managing a harmful pest. These flies were manufactured by Oxitec, a British company.
There is a certain gene in the modified Mediterranean fruit fly that stops adulthood of the female flies.
An interesting occurrence happens when these flies are disseminated to the environment. They breed offsprings - the kind that die before causing harm to crops.
Once an Oxitec male fly mate with the natural female fly, a self-limiting gene is transferred, which prevents adulthood for female offspring. This process is very beneficial because it avoids the reproduction and facilitates the shrinking population of the flies.
Australia experiences damage that cost millions every year because of the destructive species. In the western part of the country, the Medfly is the most problematic factor for commercial orchards and homes because it usually targets at least 250 types of fruit. The fruits are then subjected to infection or rot because the female medfly leaves a mark on them once she lays her eggs.
The search for other methods of pest control was initiated because of the decision of Australian regulators to phase out insecticide.
A decision came from the Department of Agriculture and Food in Western Australia to perform an evaluation for the modified flies.
The eggs of the engineered flies were brought in from the UK. DAFWA facilities oversaw the growth of the embryos. Through glasshouse trials, their capability for pest control will be evaluated.
"We need to evaluate new tools that could become a helpful part of integrated pest management practices," said Dr Neil Morrison to BBC News. Dr Morrison is a research lead at Oxitec.
Trials have been conducted in other countries. There's the trial against dengue fever-carrying mosquitoes in Panama, the same case in Brazil, and the engineered diamondback moth in the U.S.
