Google plans to release millions of treated mosquitoes in Florida. Here’s why

Google is seeking approval to release millions of specially treated male mosquitoes in Florida and California over the next two years as part of its health research project, Debug, to help reduce mosquito-borne illnesses.

The project proposes releasing up to 32 million male mosquitoes carrying a bacterium called Wolbachia. When these males mate with wild female mosquitoes, their eggs do not hatch, resulting in fewer mosquitoes in future generations.

Researchers say the goal is to reduce mosquito species that can spread diseases.

“Dengue virus, and other viruses like yellow fever, Chikungunya,” said Eric Caragata, an associate professor at the University of Florida.

Caragata, a mosquito expert, explained that the method has been studied for years and is already being used in some areas.

“There are a few different programs around the world, and there is very strong evidence that using Wolbachia can reduce dengue transmission risk,” Caragata said.

Experts also note that the plan will not increase the number of mosquito bites people experience, as only female mosquitoes bite humans.

Google is employing artificial intelligence and automated systems to raise and sort the insects before their release, using technology such as bug sorting algorithms, bug tracking sensors, and bug raising robots.

The company hopes the program will serve as another tool to control mosquito populations and reduce the spread of diseases.

Federal officials are still reviewing the proposal, and Google has not yet announced where in Florida the mosquitoes would be released or when the project might begin.