From PDines@compuserve.comThu May 1 21:18:18 1997 Date: Thu, 1 May 1997 18:22:37 -0400 From: Patricia Dines To: Patricia Dines <73652.1202@compuserve.com> Subject: Field testing of genetically-modified insects Now stepping up to the plate, for more fun and risk for all - genetically-engineered INSECTS.... !! ("Please, ma'am - you're not _allowed_ to look behind the curtain....!") P. Dines --- FORWARD --- From: MichaelP, INTERNET:papadop@peak.org To: Patricia Dines, 73652,1202 Sender: o-imap@CHUMBLY.MATH.MISSOURI.EDU Date: Thu, Apr 24, 1997, 4:22 PM Subject: Field testing of genetically-modified insects. USDA reviews release of genetically-modified insects without seeking prior public comment. Release of GE Mites Considered The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is reviewing a request from a University of Florida scientist to conduct a field test with a transgenic mite that feeds on spider mites, a pest of strawberries and ornamental crops. The USDA is not planning to have an official public comment period or hearing on this application, and only intends to publish notice in the Federal Register when the decision is made. The mite has been engineered to contain a bacterial gene that functions as a marker, making it easy for researchers to track the organism in the environment. Future experiments will introduce new genes intended to modify the mite to enhance its ability to kill pests. The Union of Concerned Scientists http://www.ucsusa.org/ucs.agpub.html said it is likely that this application will be followed by a number of other requests to release transgenic arthropods. Genetically engineered medflies, mosquitoes, honey bees, cotton bollworms and many other insects have been created in laboratories for a variety of purposes. Commercialization of these organisms would result in their widespread release and use in the environment. Genetically engineering arthropods potentially present significant environmental risks because many reproduce rapidly, they play a variety of important ecological roles, they can move considerable distances, and most would be difficult to control once released.