Includes bibliographical references (p. 199-203).

Before biotechnology -- From Mendel to DNA -- Genes in the test tube: Recombinant DNA revolution -- Difficult beginnings and great triumphs: Transformation of plants -- Plant biotechnology: Accomplishments and goals with food plants -- Other applications of plant biotechnology -- Controversies. An on-the-ground research biologist tells a clear-eyed story of modern plant genetics, the human manipulation of biology, and the reality of genetically engineered plants worldwide. Annotation. Largely celebrating the use of biotechnology in agriculture, although at times critical of some of the most cynical machinations of the large biotech companies, Luquin (genetics, Washington State U.) presents a layman's introduction to the basic science and applications of the genetic modification of food crops. He begins with a basic explanation of DNA and genetics before exploring the science of biotechnology. In the final chapters he looks at the controversies and, mostly, dismisses the fears of biotechnology's critics.