Gena Fleming
Friday, October 17, 2008 - 4:30-5:00
The new exotic species are not indigenous anywhere in the world. They are plants and other organisms whose DNA codes have been genetically engineered by humans for the benefit of industry. Unlike conventional hybrids, pathogenic vectors, micro-particle bombardment or other aggressive means are necessary in order to overcome natural safeguards and invade the DNA code with foreign genetic material. This presentation focuses on genetically engineered trees and their potential threat to forest ecosystems. Genetically engineered trees are designed to be grown in plantations of monocultures which are inherently unstable. While terminator technology is aimed at preventing spread of genetically altered species into the wild, this would result in trees that fail to provide food and pollen for wildlife. Conversely, sterility can not be guaranteed. Trees engineered for insect resistance present threats to beneficial insects and microorganisms. Trees engineered for faster growth and altered lignin production (in order to facilitate paper manufacture) result in trees that are weak and susceptible to disease. The development and application of GM forest technology involves a complex web of industry and government, as well as national and international regulatory systems.
Keywords: GENETICALLY MODIFIED ORGANISM (GMO), HORIZONTAL GENE TRANSFER, TRANSGENIC, GENETIC ENGINEERING