Genetically modified rape pollen (Brassica napus) Science Image

Ref: 80015524a



Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of two genetically-modified (GM) pollen grains from an Oil Seed Rape plant, Brassica napus. A biohazard symbol superimposed on each grain represents the possible danger GM crop plants pose to the environment. This wind dispersed pollen carries the male gametes which fertilise an egg in the female ovary of the plant to form a seed. Genetic modification of Rape plants involves introducing a foreign gene to confer resistance to a herbicide. However, the pollen carrying this gene may spread to non-GM Rape plants or affect insects which eat the pollen. Magnification: x1,330 at 5x7cm size.