"Coming Soon: Glow-in-the-Dark Petunias for Sale!"
Originally Published 2 years ago — by Singularity Hub
Idaho-based startup Light Bio has received permission from the US Department of Agriculture to sell genetically engineered glow-in-the-dark petunias. By splicing genes from a bioluminescent mushroom into the petunia, the company aims to create decorative house plants that emit a neon green glow. The genetic components borrowed from mushrooms integrate well with the host plant, allowing it to produce luciferin, the molecule responsible for bioluminescence. While the primary purpose is aesthetic, there are potential practical applications, such as using light-emitting plants to illuminate building interiors without electricity. However, there are concerns about potential ecological risks and impacts on insects and animals not accustomed to glowing plants.