‘Wolbachia method’ is sometimes talked about with reference to which one of the following?
(a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
(b) Converting crop residues into packing material
(c) Producing biodegradable plastics
(d) Producing biochar from thermo- chemical conversion of biomass
Correct answer is (a) Controlling the viral diseases spread by mosquitoes
Explanation:
The ‘Wolbachia method’ involves the use of Wolbachia, a type of bacteria that naturally lives in many insects. When introduced into mosquitoes, Wolbachia can help to reduce the transmission of harmful viruses such as Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya, and Yellow Fever. The bacteria does not harm the mosquitoes but prevents these viruses from growing inside the mosquitoes, hence reducing the mosquitoes’ ability to pass these viruses on to humans. This method has been tested in several countries as a way of controlling the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
Inputs from Current Affairs Notes >> August 2020
