Provided here is an up-to-date survey of gene transfers in
the main natural habitats, with a special reference to
genetically engineered microorganisms.In the first of five
sections technical approaches of gene transfer in the
natural environment are developed. These emphasize the use
of modernmethodologies for the detection of recombinant
bacteria in natural waters and soil, using DNA or rRNA
probes and PCR technology. The three following sections deal
with various aspects of gene transfer in aquatic
environments, terrestrial habitats and human and animal gut.
These include transfer of plasmidic or chromosomal markers
through either conjugation, mobilization, transformation or
transduction processes. Also covered are factors influencing
survival of cells harbouring the transferred genes in these
environments. The last section is devoted to an examination
of scientific and ethical problems related to the release of
genetically engineered microorganisms.