GM tadpoles 'glow in polluted water'

GENETICALLY modified tadpoles could help detect pollution levels in water, researchers in France believe.

African clawed frog tadpoles that have been modified with jellyfish genes start to “glow” fluorescent green within 24 to 48 hours of coming into contact with polluted water and could be used to indicate whether it is safe for humans to swim in lakes or rivers.

The method is a faster and less expensive way to detect pollution than traditional laboratory-based methods, Ile-de-France-based start-up company WatchFrog believes, having tested the tadpoles at a water treatment plant in Brussels.

Now, WatchFrog is planning to launch what it is calling a “Frog Box” - a mini lab filled with GM tadpoles that can be used to monitor water quality.

Photo: AllieKF