Answer to Question #24239 in Biochemistry for cathleen anderson

Question

summarize the pros and cons of using genetically engineered insects to control pests. Determine if you would be for or against the use of genetically engineered insects in your neighborhood, and explain why.

Answer 1

Genetic engineering offers much potential benefit (i.e. improved productivity or nutritional quality of plants, saving them from pest, increased pest control with decreased pesticide use) but also much potential risk. They can interact with other insects, pollinate other flowers.
On the one hand, it's a more ecologically friendly way to control mosquitoes than spraying insecticides. On the other hand, it is arousing concern about possible unintended effects on public health and the environment, because once genetically modified insects are released, they cannot be recalled. They will have an unknown impact on the ecosystems.