EM-Agriculture and the environment, page no 68

The gene of interest is transferred into the bacterium and the bacterial cells then transfer the new DNA to the genome of the plant cells. Ex: rice, canola and tomato crops have been genetically modified to increase their tolerance to salt stress.

There are many different reasons for genetically modifying plant species:

• Disease and pest resistance: genes can be cut from a resistant plant and added to a crop plant.

• Nutritional value: plants can be developed that are more nourishing.

• Growth of plants in inhospitable areas.

• Higher yields.

Concerns about the development of GMOs include:

• The unknown impact of the new characteristics on human health.

• The products are not natural.

• The genes might get into wild plants if they interbreed with GMOs.

• Issues for other insects caused by insect-resistant varieties.

  
  

THE END