Can cross-pollination occur between crops derived through biotechnology and wild, native plants?
Cross-pollination can occur if the crop and wild plant are very closely related, whether the crop is derived through conventional breeding or biotechnology. However, many factors limit cross-pollination between crops and their wild relatives, such as the proximity of the crop and wild relative; compatibility of their reproductive cycles; tendency to self-fertilize; and the length of time pollen is viable.
Related Questions
- If pollen from a crop derived through biotechnology is carried to a wild relative, are the genes automatically transferred to the wild relative?
- What is the likelihood the new genes in crops derived through biotechnology will be transferred to wild plants?
- Can herbicide tolerant genes move from crops derived through biotechnology into weeds and create "superweeds?"
