horizontal gene transfer

horizontal gene transfer (countable and uncountable, plural horizontal gene transfers, abbreviation HGT)

1. (genetics) The transfer of genetic material from one organism to another one that is not its offspring; especially common among bacteria.

   Synonym: lateral gene transfer

   • 2017, BioWare, Mass Effect: Andromeda (Science Fiction), Redwood City: Electronic Arts, →OCLC, PC, scene: Kett: Biology Codex entry:

     Study of kett DNA shows evidence of horizontal gene transfer and the incorporation of genes from dozens of unknown species.

• horizontal gene transfer on Wikipedia.Wikipedia