GloFish

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GloFish_tetra

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Zebrafisch

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GloFish are a brand of genetically modified fluorescent fish that are sold in the aquarium trade. These fish are created by adding genes from other organisms, such as jellyfish and sea anemones, to the fish's genome, which causes them to fluoresce under certain types of light. GloFish are available in a variety of colors, including red, green, orange, blue, and purple.

History

The development of GloFish began in the late 1990s when scientists were researching ways to create fluorescent fish for environmental monitoring. The first GloFish were zebrafish (Danio rerio) that were genetically modified to express a red fluorescent protein from a sea anemone. These fish were initially created to help detect environmental pollutants, but their striking appearance quickly caught the attention of the aquarium trade.

In 2003, GloFish were introduced to the United States market by Yorktown Technologies, L.P. They were the first genetically modified animals to be sold as pets. The introduction of GloFish sparked a debate about the ethics and safety of genetically modified organisms (GMOs), but they were ultimately approved for sale by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Types of GloFish

GloFish are available in several species, each with different fluorescent colors. The most common species include:

• Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
• Tetra (Gymnocorymbus ternetzi)
• Tiger barb (Puntigrus tetrazona)
• Rainbow shark (Epalzeorhynchos frenatum)

Each species has been genetically modified to express one or more fluorescent proteins, resulting in a variety of colors such as Starfire Red, Electric Green, Sunburst Orange, Cosmic Blue, and Galactic Purple.

Genetic Modification

The genetic modification process involves inserting a gene that codes for a fluorescent protein into the fish's genome. This gene is typically derived from marine organisms such as jellyfish (Aequorea victoria) or sea anemones. The inserted gene is controlled by a promoter that ensures the fluorescent protein is expressed in the fish's cells, causing them to glow under ultraviolet or blue light.

Ethical and Environmental Concerns

The sale and distribution of GloFish have raised several ethical and environmental concerns. Critics argue that the creation of genetically modified pets is unnecessary and could have unforeseen ecological impacts if the fish were to escape into the wild. Proponents, however, argue that GloFish are safe and provide an opportunity to educate the public about genetic engineering and biotechnology.

Regulation

In the United States, GloFish are regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA has determined that GloFish pose no greater risk to the environment than their non-modified counterparts. In other countries, the sale of GloFish may be subject to different regulations and restrictions.

Related Pages

• Genetically modified organism
• Fluorescent protein
• Aquarium
• Zebrafish
• Biotechnology