Science Friday How Millions Of Flies Can Help Stop The New World Screwworm
Jul 22, 2025
In this discussion, entomologist Sonja Swiger, a professor at Texas A&M, sheds light on the alarming resurgence of the New World screwworm, a voracious pest threatening livestock. She explains innovative strategies, including the aerial release of millions of sterile flies to combat this menace. Swiger also shares insights into past successful eradication efforts and the current urgency driven by climate change and rising awareness. The conversation highlights public reactions to these controversial methods and emphasizes the importance of education in pest management.
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Screwworms: Deadly Parasite Insight
- The new world screwworm lay eggs in wounds of warm-blooded animals, eating them from the inside out.
- It impacts livestock industries as well as other animals and can even affect humans.
Geographical Containment History
- The screwworm flew was contained in a small area, the Darien Gap, for over 30 years.
- Its recent northward spread beyond this area is a major concern.
Sterile Fly Release Method
- To control screwworms, millions of sterile flies are released from airplanes.
- Ground stations also release sterile pupae to hatch and interrupt wild populations.