Which of the following is not an example of genetically modified organism?

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 3: Molly

Molly (Poecilia sphenops) is the correct answer because it is the only organism on this list that is *not* a product of modern genetic engineering, and therefore is not a Genetically Modified Organism (GMO). A GMO is defined as an organism whose genetic material has been altered using recombinant DNA technology, typically involving the insertion of genes from another species or the alteration of its own genes in a targeted manner in a laboratory setting. The Molly fish is a popular freshwater aquarium fish that has been bred for centuries, resulting in numerous varieties with different color patterns and fin shapes (like the Sailfin or Balloon Molly). These varieties are created entirely through traditional methods of selective breeding and hybridization, which rely on choosing parents with desirable, naturally-occurring traits. The Molly fish's genome has not been directly manipulated with biotechnology, placing it outside the definition of a GMO.

The incorrect option is 1: Glo fish

GloFish are examples of genetically modified organisms. These are a patented brand of fluorescent fish, originally created using Zebrafish, that have been altered to express vivid, glowing colors. Their genetic modification involves inserting a gene that codes for a fluorescent protein, which is typically derived from sea corals or jellyfish, into the fish's embryo. This foreign gene is successfully integrated into the fish's DNA, causing the fish to glow brightly under specific lighting conditions. Because the GloFish's genome contains deliberately introduced DNA from a different biological source, they unequivocally meet the criteria for a Genetically Modified Organism.

The incorrect option is 2: Flavr Savr

Flavr Savr is a historical example of a genetically modified organism in the realm of food crops. This was a tomato variety developed to be less susceptible to spoilage. The genetic modification involved introducing an antisense gene that interfered with the production of polygalacturonase, an enzyme responsible for breaking down pectin and causing the fruit to soften after harvest. By reducing the activity of this key softening enzyme, the Flavr Savr tomato gained an extended shelf life, allowing it to ripen longer on the vine and still be transported effectively. Its deliberate modification using molecular biology techniques to achieve a desired commercial trait classifies it as a GMO.

The incorrect option is 4: Golden Rice

Golden Rice is a prominent and often-discussed example of a genetically modified organism with a humanitarian purpose. This rice variety was genetically engineered to produce and accumulate beta-carotene in its endosperm, which is the edible part of the grain. To achieve this, two genes—one from a daffodil (*Narcissus pseudonarcissus*) and one from a common soil bacterium (*Erwinia uredovora*)—were inserted into the rice genome. Beta-carotene is a crucial precursor for Vitamin A, and this modification was aimed at fighting widespread Vitamin A deficiency in developing countries. The intentional incorporation of foreign genes to enhance nutritional content confirms Golden Rice's status as a genetically modified organism.