Saving Florida’s oranges, one stomach hole at a time, encapsulates a determined effort to tackle a looming agricultural tragedy. Oranges, once the pride of Florida’s agricultural landscape, face an unprecedented crisis. Alico, a significant player in the citrus industry, is closing its groves in response to mounting challenges.
WATCH AS FOX 4’S ANVAR RUZIEV SPEAKS WITH RESEARCHERS, TRYING TO SAVE THE CITRUS INDUSTRY.
Saving Florida’s oranges, one stomach hole at a time
The Fort Myers-based company, known for producing nearly 15 million pounds of fruit last year, cites unsustainability due to relentless hurricanes and the widespread impact of a disease known as citrus greening.
Citrus greening, an affliction brought on by the invasive Asian citrus psyllid, stunts fruit development, leaving oranges small, bitter, and unripe. The disease compromises the trees’ leaves and stems, making their struggle to produce healthy fruit even more disheartening. Alico has faced hard decisions, reassigning land and letting more than 170 employees go, casting a shadow over the community.
Yet, amidst this turmoil, hope flickers. Researchers from the University of Florida are tirelessly seeking innovative solutions. Guided by Dr. Lukasz Stelinski, their work revolves around a groundbreaking approach: a genetically modified citrus tree engineered to produce a specific protein that targets the psyllid.
“The protein binds to the stomach of the pest, creating holes,” Dr. Stelinski explained. “Essentially, it turns the insect’s stomach into Swiss cheese.” This scientific marvel does more than eliminate pests; it halts their reproduction. As a result, the disease is kept at bay. The protein is not harmful to humans, animals, or the ecosystem. Dr. Stelinski reassures, “It’s much safer compared to the pesticides we often use.”
While this technology is still being refined, and years of testing remain ahead, it stands as a beacon of hope for those yearning to see Florida’s orange groves flourish again. Alongside firms like Alico transitioning to alternate crops—hay and sod among them—citrus enthusiasts can only hope that science will rise to the occasion and rescue this beloved fruit.
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