What are the differences between genetic engineering and cloning?

Basis of differentiation

Genetic engineering

Cloning

Definition

Genetic engineering modifies DNA to create novel organisms by adding or removing genes

Cloning involves creating identical populations of organisms with the same genetic makeup

Genetic material

Genetic engineering changes the genetic material of an organism

Cloning results in the replication of genetically identical copies of an organism

Natural/Artificial

Genetic engineering is exclusively an artificial process

Cloning can occur naturally through asexual reproduction or artificially through methods like molecular or reproductive cloning

Role

Genetic engineering is involved in the introduction of desired traits to a particular organism

Cloning helps maintain beneficial traits in organisms across successive generations