The release of genetically engineered plants and microorganisms

Abstract Genetically manipulated plants, animals and microorganisms are being released into the environment for research purposes and will soon be released commercially in large numbers. Mankind has considerable experience of the release of unmanipulated organisms and will need to base regulatory procedures for manipulated species on this experience and knowledge of gene transfer and stability. In this article some problems that might be posed by genetically manipulated organisms are discussed.