Abstract: Mosquito control technologies that we only imagined a generation ago are now being deployed and assessed routinely in the field. These technologies include Wolbachia-mediated cytoplasmic incompatibility, irradiation, dsRNA-mediated silencing, and precision guided Sterile Insect Technique (pgSIT) and CRISPR-mediated gene drives. Oxitec uses a self-limiting gene in Aedes aegypti that selects for the survival of male larvae and death of female larvae. Sex segregation is accomplished genetically rather than by human eye, a pupal sorter, or expensive image recognition software and laser-assisted ablation of adult females. This approach enables segregation of the sexes at the larval stage in the field, ensuring only male mosquitoes are released. Hence, the cost and operational feasibility of this technology enables ease of use by mosquito control districts (MCDs), homeowners, and businesses, such as hotels and resorts. We will present results from Oxitec projects in Brazil and Florida that illustrate the efficacy and challenges of this technology.
