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Office of the Gene Technology Regulator
October 2015
Questions & Answers on licence DIR 134 –
Commercial import and distribution of genetically modified carnations
What does this licence allow?
International Flower Developments Pty Ltd (IDF) has received approval to import into
Australia three varieties of genetically modified (GM) carnation cut-flowers with altered
flower colour: Florigene® MoonaquaTM, Florigene® MoonberryTM and Florigene®
MoonvelvetTM. The GM carnation cut-flowers would be imported in the same way as other
GM and non-GM carnations to be sold for ornamental purposes. The licence does not
permit growing the GM carnations in Australia.
How have the GM carnations been modified?
The GM carnations have been genetically modified to produce mauve, purple or violet
coloured flowers. Petunia, pansy and carnation genes have been introduced into the GM
carnations which lead to the expression of natural pigments not normally present in
carnations. In addition, the GM carnations contain an herbicide tolerance gene from
tobacco plants to enable selection of GM plants in the laboratory.
How are the GM carnations different from existing commercial GM carnations?
Similar GM carnation lines with blue flower colour were authorised for growing in
Australia in 1995. In 2007, these GM carnations were placed on the GMO Register due to
the minimal risk to people and the environment. Florigene® MoonaquaTM was modified
with the same genes as the already approved GM carnation lines; Florigene®
MoonberryTM and Florigene® MoonvelvetTM contain genes and/or partial genes to further
enhance the blue flower colour.
Are the GM carnation cut-flowers safe for people and the environment?
The risk from the commercial import and distribution of these GM carnation cut flowers
was assessed and found to be negligible. Similar carnations have been grown and sold in
Australia since 1995. These GM carnations have been approved in a number of overseas
countries. No adverse effects on human health and safety or the environment have been
reported either in Australia or from extensive cultivation and distribution overseas.
Want more information?
A number of documents relating to this decision are available on the DIR 134 page of the
OGTR website or via Freecall 1800 181 030. These documents include the finalised Risk
Assessment and Risk Management Plan (RARMP), a summary of the RARMP and the
licence.
The Office of the Gene Technology Regulator, MDP 54, GPO Box 9848, Canberra, ACT, 2601
Telephone: 1800 181 030 Facsimile: 02 6271 4202 Email: [email protected]
OGTR website http://www.ogtr.gov.au/