This shortens their growing season. Fish, on the other hand, survive in very cold water. Scientists identified a particular gene which enables a flounder to resist cold and used the technology of genetic engineering to insert this 'anti-freeze' gene into a tomato. This makes it possible to extend the growing season of the tomato. At first glance, this might look exciting to some people.
Deeper consideration reveals serious dangers.
When the new gene is inserted, it may disrupt the functioning of other genes essential to the life of that organism. Side Effects - Genetic engineering is like performing heart surgery with a shovel. Scientists don't know enough about living systems to perform DNA surgery without creating mutations which could be harmful to the environment and our health. They are experimenting with very delicate, yet powerful forces of nature, without full knowledge of the repercussions. Widespread Crop Failure - Genetic engineers intend to make money by patenting genetically engineered seeds.