What characterizes a transgenic organism?

A transgenic organism is specifically characterized by containing DNA from a different species, which means it has been genetically modified to express traits that are not naturally present in that organism. This is typically achieved through techniques such as recombinant DNA technology, where genes are transferred between species, allowing for the introduction of new traits such as pest resistance or improved nutritional content.

In contrast, traditional breeding methods, which involve crossing individuals within the same species or closely related species, do not result in transgenic organisms since they do not involve the direct manipulation of genes from entirely different species. Furthermore, a transgenic organism is not unchanged from its wild form; rather, it has undergone modifications to its genetic makeup. Lastly, transgenic organisms are not limited to being created through cloning; they can be produced through various methods of genetic engineering, including direct transformation of cells.