Researchers at the University of Florida are developing a genetically modified citrus tree, armed with a gene from the soil bacterium Bt, to combat the Asian psyllid, a key carrier of citrus greening. Although early testing has shown promise against young psyllids, more field trials are planned to evaluate its effectiveness against adults and to further assess its impact on reducing[/INST] reliance on insecticides. This advancement could mark a significant step towards sustaining Florida's citrus industry, which has been severely threatened by citrus greening since its introduction in 2005. The research, funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, builds on the success of Bt proteins in protecting other crops from insect pests and aims to provide a sustainable solution for citrus growers to combat the Asian citrus psyllid.