Investigation into the long-term viability of wMel Wolbachia as a biocontrol strategy

Infection of the bacteria wMel Wolbachia into the Aedes aegypti mosquito limits transmission of viruses such as dengue and Zika to people. This recently developed biocontrol tool is currently used to protect communities in 11 countries. This thesis explores the potential implications of the long-term use of this technology and finds wMel to largely be stable in Aedes aegypti. This supports the application of wMel as a robust biocontrol tool and suggests it will continue to reduce virus transmission and protect communities into the future.