USDA proposes the release of GE moths

The USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has proposed the field release of genetically engineered diamondback moths with a female lethality gene. The purpose of the field release is to assess the feasibility and efficacy of these moths in reducing populations of non-genetically engineered diamondback moths.

 

In October 2013, APHIS received a permit application from Cornell University seeking the permitted field release of three strains of GE diamondback moth (DBM, Plutella xylostella), designated as OX4319L-Pxy, OX4319N-Pxy, and OX4767A-Pxy. The GE DBM have been genetically engineered to exhibit red fluorescence as a marker and repressible female lethality, also known as female autocide, which permits the selection of DBM males during rearing. When released, it is likely that any female progeny produced from GE DBM males and non-GE DBM females will die.

 

 The release would be limited to 6 sites not exceeding 10 acres per site. The release of 20,000 GE DBMs per release per site would be allowed, with up to 5 releases per week per site. Post-experiment monitoring of DBM with traps would continue for 2 weeks after the conclusion of each release to assess field longevity of GE DBM. The red fluorescent marker will allow the GE DBMs to be identified. 

 

The public comments should be submitted before September 29th 2014