Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is the process by which organisms transfer genetic material between each other in a non-reproductive manner, allowing for rapid adaptation and evolution. This mechanism can lead to significant changes in microbial populations, particularly in environments where bacteria face selective pressures, such as wastewater treatment systems. HGT plays a crucial role in the spread of antibiotic resistance and can influence the effectiveness of monitoring strategies and risk assessments in environmental contexts.
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