Questions here relate to microorganisms associated with plants and microorganisms which might be applied to modify the physical or chemical environment (e.g. microorganisms to modify soil properties).
1
For microorganisms associated with plants, what is
the partner species of plant? Describe the specificity of the
interaction and indicate the range of plant species with which the
GMO can interact.
C3, C10
2
Has the parent organism an extended history of use
in agriculture? If so, please elaborate.
A1
3
For microorganisms associated with plants:
i)
what is the effect of the GMO on the partner plant species and how
will this be monitored?
ii) what other secondary effects might
the GMO have on the plant?
iii) does the modification cause any
change to the range of host plant species available to the
organism?
iv) what effect of the GMO, if any, is anticipated on
the distribution and abundance of the host plant species and other
species with which the organism can interact?
C10
C10
C3
C10
C10, D8
4
If the GMO is associated with plant species which
are food crops, could it affect the suitability of the resultant
produce for human or animal consumption? If so, explain.
E1, E2, E3, E4
5
What are the effects expected on soil chemistry
(e.g. pH, mineral leaching, chelation, nutrient levels)?
C4, D4
6
What is the survival and dispersal of the GMO in
natural waters and soil?
C1, C9, D2
7
What could be the effects of the GMO on water
quality?
D4
8
Does the GMO produce spores?
C9
9
Is the GMO resistant to desiccation?
C9
10
What effects might the GMO have on soil organisms
which are known to be beneficial to plants (e.g. Rhizobium,
Azospirillum, Frankia and mycorrhizal fungi) and are likely to be in
the test area?
D4, D8
11
What is known about interactions between the GMO and
closely related microorganisms in the partner plant (if applicable)
or the environment of the release site?
D2, D4
12
For GMOs associated with plants, what effect might
the GMO have on insects, birds and animals (including humans) which
may eat the plant?
C2
13
Does the GMO exchange genetic material with known
plant pathogens? If so, elaborate.
D2
14
What sterilizing and anti-microbial agents are
active against the GMO?
C6, D7
15
Is the GMO susceptible to UV and ionizing
radiation?
