The Case for Genetic Engineering of Native and Landscape Trees against Introduced Pests and Diseases

Abstract

Abstract: Many important native forest trees and familiar landscape trees of the northern temperate zone have been devastated by introduced pests and diseases. Without human intervention, many of these trees will become extinct or endangered. As trade and travel increase, it is likely that further devastating epidemics will occur. To undo the damage that has been done, we suggest limited, cautious transfer of resistance genes from the original host species in the source region of the pest or disease. The transgenic trees can then be replanted in forests or countryside to resume their original ecological niche. This method could have some advantages over tree‐breeding techniques, including introgression. For instance, fewer tree generations would be required and fewer unnecessary genes of the non‐native tree species would be introduced. Furthermore, once the technique is perfected it would be possible to separately add resistance genes to local land races of trees, for reintroduction to their original habitats, without relying on intensive and lengthy local introgression programs. Practical problems with identifying and transferring resistance genes do exist, however, and somaclonal errors might lead to genetically engineered trees that do not resemble their parent in growth form. Nevertheless, we believe that, with further work, this approach may offer a preferable alternative to introgression with non‐native trees.