Final answer:
Transgenic organisms contain genetic material from different species, introduced through recombinant DNA technology to exhibit beneficial traits. Transgenic plants like corn, potatoes, and tomatoes are rigorously monitored for safety and ecological impact.
Step-by-step explanation:
What are Transgenic Organisms?
Organisms that have been genetically engineered to contain both original and foreign genes are known as transgenic organisms. When we specifically talk about plants, such organisms are called transgenic plants. These plants have received recombinant DNA, which means that they have been modified with DNA from a different species to exhibit new, beneficial traits such as resistance to pests, herbicides, or environmental conditions. The introduction of foreign genes is done using recombinant DNA technology, a commonplace method in genetic engineering that ensures the plants possess unique combinations of genes that may be advantageous for human consumption and agricultural purposes.
Government agencies closely monitor these transgenic plants to ensure they do not pose risks to human health or the environment. Therefore, organisms like corn, potatoes, and tomatoes, which were among the first crop plants to be genetically engineered, are subjected to rigorous testing to maintain ecological stability.