What are organisms called when their genes have been altered through manipulation?

Genetically modified organisms

a) Genetically modified organisms

Explanation: Organisms whose genetic material has been deliberately altered or manipulated in a laboratory setting are known as genetically modified organisms (GMOs). This genetic modification is done to introduce new desirable traits or improve existing ones, such as pest resistance, disease resistance, or increased yield. GMOs can include plants, bacteria, fungi, and animals that have undergone genetic engineering.

(b) Hybrid organisms: Hybrid organisms result from the cross-breeding of different species or varieties to produce offspring with desirable traits. While hybrids are commonly used in agriculture to improve characteristics like yield and disease resistance, the term "hybrid organisms" does not specifically refer to genetically engineered organisms.

(c) Pest resistant organisms: These are organisms that have been genetically modified to resist or repel pests, such as insects, fungi, or pathogens. Genetic engineering can introduce genes into the organism's genome that produce toxins harmful to pests or trigger natural defense mechanisms against them.

(d) Insect resistant organisms: Insect-resistant organisms are a subset of genetically modified organisms that have been engineered to have enhanced resistance to insect pests. This is often achieved by incorporating genes from other organisms, like bacteria, that produce toxins harmful to the target insects.

Out of these options, the term "genetically modified organisms" (GMOs) is the most appropriate and comprehensive term to describe organisms whose genes have been altered through genetic manipulation. It covers a wide range of organisms, including plants, bacteria, fungi, and animals, and encompasses the various applications of genetic engineering in agriculture, medicine, and other fields.