The rapid development of genetically engineered fish is posing irreparable impacts on aquatic ecosystems. Researchers already are developing more than 35 species of genetically engineered fish. At least one company, A/F Protein, has requested approval from the FDA to market as food an engineered salmon that grows 10 to 30 times faster than normal salmon.
The release of genetically engineered fish can cause potentially devastating environmental and human health impacts. A 2001 National Academy of Sciences report states that the release of genetically engineered fish into the environment may threaten the survival of wild species. Furthermore, a 2004 Purdue University research study contains new experimental data that strengthens the plausibility of the “Trojan gene” effect first demonstrated in a 1998 study. By incorporating more biological data into a population model, researchers showed that growth-enhanced genetically engineered fish could lead to the extinction or replacement of wild fish populations.
As with the growing of non-native fish, the use and sale of genetically engineered fish in offshore and ornamental aquaculture facilities poses serious threats to the diversity and well being of native fish. Already the majority of non-native tropical fish invading Florida’s waters are from releases of ornamental fish farms and releases by pet owners. The development of a Florida-based, genetically engineered pet fish trade makes it highly likely that genetically engineered fish will escape or be released, and Florida’s environment, including endangered species, will be affected by these genetically engineered organisms.
Although there are serious threats posed by genetically engineered fish, on the federal level, only the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has asserted jurisdiction over these fish (due to CFS’ legal work). In 2001, CFS filed legal petitions with the federal agencies that should have asserted jurisdiction over genetically engineered fish. While CFS’ efforts have been successful in pushing the environmental agencies to get involved in the regulation of genetically engineered fish, if endangered species are threatened, the scope of the environmental federal agencies’ jurisdiction over the issue is limited. Therefore, it is imperative that the individual states fill in the legal gaps. It is critical that each state adopt its own comprehensive set of regulations over these fish in order to prevent harm to the states’ unique fish and wildlife.
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