The Mosquito-Killing Fungus

One way of beating malaria involves killing mosquitoes. If they're too fast for you, why not try a fungus?

In the article Fungus Fatal to Mosquito May Aid Global War on Malaria, Donald G. McNeil Jr. writes about two fungi which are harmless to humans and the environment, but are deadly with mosquitoes.

Recent malaria-related tragedies in the Philippines have increased public interest in malaria. While you may use chemicals or specially-treated mosquito nets and screens, mosquitoes eventually develop some kind of resistance.

Why are humans not harmed by the fungi? Human bodies are too warm.

I dunno. Sometimes, my insides feel cold. Can something that's fatal to mosquitoes really not affect humans and the environment? We'll see what happens in a couple of years.
[ First posted on 06/10/2005 by Manuel Viloria ]