New Technique to Control Tiger Mosquito in Alicante: Release of Sterilised Males with Gamma Rays

The tiger mosquito, known for its irritating bites, is an exotic and invasive species posing a public health risk, as it can transmit up to 22 diseases, including dengue and Zika. To control its spread, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water, Livestock and Fisheries will implement for the first time in the province of Alicante a technique to massively sterilise this species.

The so-called Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) has already been tested in certain regions of Valencia and Castellón, where it has managed to reduce the mosquito population by up to 80%. This system will be launched in Alicante province in 2025.

This biological control method (SIT) involves the mass release of sterile male tiger mosquitoes. The males, which do not bite, are sterilised using gamma ray irradiation before being released in affected areas. Unable to reproduce, the sterile males prevent the species' proliferation, leading to a gradual reduction in the mosquito population.

The Ministry of Agriculture is working with the Tragsa Group to breed, sterilise, and release the males, as these do not bite. It is the female tiger mosquito that bites, causing discomfort and capable of transmitting diseases. Therefore, the weekly release of thousands of male tiger mosquitoes poses no risk to human health.

The Generalitat has not only planned this measure to combat the spread of the tiger mosquito. It will also conduct a communication campaign with the slogan 'Goodbye to the Tiger Mosquito', aimed at informing the public about the biological control of this species.

The campaign will be developed with informational materials such as brochures, posters, and MUPIs at strategic points. Additionally, the official campaign website, www.adiosalmosquitotigre.com, will provide detailed information about the programme, local actions, and preventive measures citizens can adopt to help reduce the tiger mosquito population.