Describe a scenario where genetic control might be preferable to chemical control.

• A. It requires heavy insecticide use.
• B. In area with high insecticide resistance or environmental concerns, sterile insect technique or Wolbachia introduction could lower populations without chemical exposure.
• C. It is only used for non-disease vectors.
• D. Genetic control is rarely used; always worse than chemical.

Answer: (B)

When chemical control is limited by resistance or a desire to reduce environmental impact, genetic control offers a way to lower mosquito numbers without relying on insecticides. For areas where mosquitoes have become resistant to commonly used chemicals or where pesticide use would raise environmental or non-target concerns, strategies like the sterile insect technique or releasing Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes can curb populations without chemical exposure. Releasing sterilized males means they mate with wild females but produce no offspring, gradually shrinking the population. Introducing Wolbachia bacteria can cause reproductive incompatibilities or alter traits that reduce disease transmission, also helping to suppress or control the vector without chemicals. This approach is particularly valuable because it targets the species specifically and minimizes chemical residues and resistance development.