Researches at Bistrita Fruit Growing Research Station are developing a genetically modified plum tree which will be resistant to plum pox, an incurable disease which can only be stopped by cutting down affected trees.
The Bistrita researchers are cooperating with the United States, where one of the classic plum clones has already been patented and used by farmers. The Digi 24 genetically modified plum trees will be planted in Romania in 2019, i.e. when the research project will end. The European Union allows each State to decide whether to approve or prohibit GMO cultivation.
Meanwhile, the fruits obtained from these plums will not be consumed. According to the Agriculture Nasaud last year 75 kg of plums harvested from transgenic plum trees planted for experimental purposes at SCDP Bistrita County were destroyed.
Source: geneticliteracyproject.org
