Transcript Question
Monsanto, a company that produces genetically modified organisms, or GMO’s, (traditionally agricultural) has negotiated a joint venture with S C Johnson, a household chemical company. The two companies have combined to create a genetically engineered virus that specifically disrupts the life cycle of all types of mosquitos. Early testing of the product shows a 100% success rate in the extermination of mosquitos in the treated areas. Revenues on the product alone, are projected to exceed 11.4 billion dollars. Additionally, the economic impact of the product is forecasted to fall between 41 billion and 2.6 trillion dollars (factoring in the medical and agricultural savings from the eradication of associated diseases spread by mosquitos). As part of the process for receiving federal approval and licensing of this product, environmental impact studies must be conducted by independent research institutions. The Denton High School Biology Dept. has been retained to conduct impact studies in 11 different environmental regions known for high populations of mosquitos. You and your team will select a region of study and determine the environmental impact of the complete eradication of mosquitos in the assigned location. Remember the that ecosystems are composed of organisms that interact and are interdependent. You will select 1 region to research and determine the environmental impact of eradicating all mosquitos in that region. Apply your knowledge of ecology to complete the assignment. • • • • • • • • • • • Borneo Rainforest, Malaysia Congo Rainforest, Central Africa Amazonian Rainforest, Brazil Atchafalaya Basin, Lousianna, USA Lacandon Jungle, Chiapas, Mexico La Digue Swamps, Seychelles Tigris-Euphrates Swamp, West Asia Candaba Swamp, the Philippines Bangweulu Swamps, Zambia Okavango Swamp, Botswana The Great Dismal Swamp, Virginia, USA Problem Based Solutions/Types of Questions FACTUAL CONCEPTUAL DEBATABLE QUESTIONS QUESTIONS QUESTIONS What do we need How is it applied? Why or Why not? to know? Product: •Report •PowerPoint •Graphic Organizer