Gene flow is not unique to genetically modified (GM) crops, but the possibility
of the spread of transgenic DNA to wild and domesticated relatives raises a new
set of issues for scientists and policymakers to consider. Unfortunately, we are
still too often unable to quantify the risks of ecological damage associated
with gene flow. This is due partly to the huge breadth of knowledge required to
assemble a comprehensive risk assessment. For example, many scientists active in
research on the mechanics of gene flow nevertheless lack a deep understanding of
what is required to identify, characterise and assess ecological risk, and many
of those who are aware