Fish

GE fish are new life forms that have never occurred in nature and could cause irreversible damage to wild fish stocks, the wider marine environment, and our own food supply.

Over a dozen different species of fish are being genetically engineered throughout the world, including salmon, tilapia, bass, trout and catfish.

By inserting genes from other species of fish, and in some cases even insect and human genes, GE fish are altered to produce unnaturally high levels of growth hormones.

Genetic engineering fish with growth hormones can leave fish deformed, unable to swim, feed or reproduce as normal fish would.

GE fish pose a serious threat to wild fish and marine biodiversity because once they escape into open waters, they can never be recalled.

Even a small number of GE fish released into the wild could have potentially devastating effects. For example, researchers at Purdue University in Indiana, USA estimate that 60 fertile GE fish introduced into a natural population of 60,000 could annihilate the natural stock in 20-30 years.

Fish escaping from aqua facilities are not uncommon. In light of these risks and the unpredictable nature of genetically engineered fish, Greenpeace calls for a global ban on the commercialization of genetically engineered fish reared in any aquatic environment.

In-Depth:

GE Fish -- New threats to the environment

Purdue scientists: Genetically modified fish could damage ecology

For more information and to become involved in the GE fish campaign, visit the Center for Food Safety's website.

One fish, two fish, red fish, glofish?