What is the Difference Between Artificial Selection and Genetic Engineering?

Artificial selection and genetic engineering are two methods that allow humans to change a species so that its members are better suited for human needs. However, the mechanism for change is different:

Artificial selection:

Selects for traits already present in a species.
Breeds only individuals with desirable traits.
Does not introduce any foreign DNA into the genome.
Does not require specific equipment and trained people.
Changes the genetic composition of organisms by selecting offspring with desired traits.

Genetic engineering:

Introduces foreign DNA into the genome.
Directly alters an organism's DNA.
Uses tools of DNA technology to manipulate the genome.
Can introduce a gene between two distantly-related species.
Directly manipulates genes.

In summary, artificial selection selects individuals with desirable traits to breed, while genetic engineering directly manipulates an organism's genetic makeup to produce the desired traits. Both methods contribute to the evolution of species, but genetic engineering allows for more precise and rapid changes.

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What is the Difference Between Artificial Selection and Genetic Engineering?

Comparative Table: Artificial Selection vs Genetic Engineering

Here is a table comparing the differences between artificial selection and genetic engineering:

Feature	Artificial Selection	Genetic Engineering
Definition	The breeding process in which human beings intervene and select desirable traits present in species like plants or animals.	A novel field in biotechnology that allows the changing of the genetic makeup of an organism, introducing valuable traits via recombinant DNA technology.
Method	Selects individuals with desirable traits to breed.	Directly manipulates the genetic composition of organisms by adding or silencing genes.
Manipulation of Genes	Indirect manipulation of genes by selecting offspring with desirable traits.	Direct manipulation of genes.
Evolutionary Importance	Contributes to evolution by selecting individuals with desirable traits.	Contributes to evolution by introducing new genetic traits.
Examples	Selective breeding of plants and animals for specific traits.	Introduction of genes from one species to another or modifying genes within a species.
Limitations	Limited by existing genetic variation within a species.	Introduction of genes between distantly-related species.
History	Traditional method dating back thousands of years.	Modern method developed over the last few decades.

In summary, artificial selection involves breeding individuals with desirable traits, while genetic engineering directly manipulates the genetic makeup of an organism. Artificial selection has a more limited scope and is restricted by existing genetic variation, whereas genetic engineering can introduce genes between distantly-related species and can be more precise in the traits it modifies.

Guilherme Mazui

Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.