Gene Flow
Gene flow is defined as the "movement of individuals, and/or the genetic material they carry, from one population to another" according to Understanding Evolution, and has contributed to creating genetic diversity. It has already been observed as a negative outcome when discussing genetically modified crops because of a couple of identified risks. First is the invasion of transgenic crops on the wild productions of cultivated crops that could eventually distort the ecosystem by continually producing organisms that contain traits that aren't viable and can't thrive in the wild. These crops aren't a threat to the wild habitat, they simply create a weaker environment. Weediness is the word used to describe a plant's lack of the ability to grow properly and is the other environmental risk of gene flow.
|
Although the chances are low, this would establish once healthy crops as weeds making it an "invasive crop". Gene flow could also result in the formation of herbicide and pesticide resistant traits that would allow an organism to protect its health instead of diminish the chances it could survive in certain habitats.