Publisher's Synopsis
The exploitation of genetically engineered microorganisms (GEMs) in industry and agriculture has resulted in concern over the ecological impact of genes as pollutants. The fact that an introduced gene has the potential to be replicated and disseminated, makes it an unusual and potentially more recalcitrant pollutant than, for example, chemicals such as pesticides. In addition microorganisms are difficult to contain and track in nature. Thus, the study of gene transfer in nature has become a topic of interest to many groups in addition to microbial ecologists engaged in such research.;This book represents contributions from scientists active in this area of research, with the intended aim of reviewing current methods and approaches to the study of microbial genetic interactions in the environment. The fate of genes in natural populations has always been a topic of interest to ecologists. However, within microbial ecology in recent years it has received increased attention because of the perceived risks associated with the release of GEMs.
