Address one of the topics given below in a primary posting that consists of at least one paragraph addressing the discussion questions posed.Also, please reply to at least one fellow student under any topic.

Topic A. Genetically-engineered mosquitos. Read the following article. In your own words, summarize that pros and cons of using genetically-engineered insects to control pests. As a citizen, would you be for or against the use of genetically-engineered insects in your neighborhood? Explain why.

Pollack, A. (2011, October 30) Concerns are raised about genetically-engineered mosquitos. The New York Times. Retrieved fromhttp://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/31/science/concerns-raised-about-genetically-engineered-mosquitoes.html?pagewanted=all

Topic B. The Ash-borer: a non-native insect species. Read the following article on the Ash borer. Describe how knowledge of the Ash borer's ecology and behavior are helping to control infestations of this non-native species. All of this costs money. As a citizen, do you feel that it is worth it?

DePalma, A. (2011, September 12) Taking advantage of a destructive insect's weakness for purple. The New York Times. Retrieved fromhttp://www.nytimes.com/2011/09/13/science/13beetle.html?pagewanted=all

Topic C. How did the introduction of earthworms by Europeans affect North American ecosystems. Prior to the arrival of Europeans, the common nightcrawler, an annelid worm, was absent from much of the North American continent. Apparently, they had been wiped out by the glaciers of the last Ice Age. Conduct Internet research to find out how the introduction of earthworms to North America occurred in the so-called "Columbian Exchange" and howthis affected the environment. Write at least one paragraph. Cite your sources and provide references. Be certain that your post is unique and not merely duplicative of others.

Topic D. Neglected Tropical Diseases -- from worms. A subset of what are called "Neglected Tropical Diseases" are caused by parasitic worms. Conduct Internet research to find one NTD that results from a parasitic worm. Describe one NTD and the organism that causes it. Explain how it relates to this lesson. Write at least one paragraph. Cite your sources and provide references. Be certain that your post is unique and not merely duplicative of others.