Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
GMOs are organisms whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. This can include plants, animals, and microorganisms.
Related terms
Transgenic Organism: An organism that contains DNA from another species. Transgenic organisms are a type of GMO.
Selective Breeding/ Artificial Selection: A process used by humans to develop new organisms with specific characteristics by selecting which of an animal's or plant's traits will be passed on to its offspring.
The technology used in genetic engineering where DNA molecules from different sources are combined into one molecule to create a new set of genes. This DNA is then transferred into an organism, giving it modified or novel genes.
"Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)" also found in: