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Sterile Fly Release Programs (IS Action Programs) |
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APHIS-International Services has a long history in administering sterile fly release programs, both formerly in the United States, and currently in Mexico, the Caribbean and Central America with the goal of driving selective dangerous and invasive pests out of the Americas. Pests we focus on are the New American Screwworm (Cochliomyia hominivorax), which is particularly dangerous to humans, pets and livestock.
Also of concern is the Mediteranean Fruit Fly (Medfly) or Mexican Fruit Fly (MexFly) which interfere with fruit production and transportation and can produce a severe negative impact on agricultural production.
APHIS International Services Action Programs Staff work primarily to maintain Sterile Fly Release Programs through sterile fly-rearing centers in Pecora, Panama; Tapachula, Mexico and in Guatemala. The fly release programs have successfully reduced the populations of the North American Screwworm, a threat to both livestock and to people, and of Mediterranean Fruit fly and Mexican Fruit Fly, species that are dangerous to agricultural produce and can severely impact saleable fresh produce. Both are considered substaintial threats to U.S. agriculture as well as to the agriculture of their host countries. Supressing the insects greatly stabilizes trade in agricultural products and the threat of reintroducing these pests to the U.S. is reduced.
Last Modified: April 23, 2013 |
