ABSTRACT
Genetic engineering (GE) is the physical isolation, modification, and asexual transfer of genes. It is employed when new, qualitative changes in an organism are desired that are difficult to accomplish via traditional breeding. It may involve the creation and introduction of modified forms of native or homologous genes that are rare in wild populations but desirable in tree crop production environments, such as for sterility or semidwarfism. Or it may involve the introduction of exotic genes from distant taxa that impart useful functions, such as the ability to detoxify novel environmental pollutants, or certain pest management traits. It complements, but does not replace, the quantitative, polygenic, and incremental breeding for basic productivity and adaptation to environment of traditional breeding programs.
