Washington ? If ever there were a candidate for genetic engineering, surely it is the pale, flavor-challenged bird that will adorn millions of American dinner tables as a matter of Thanksgiving ritual.

And here is a reason to give thanks: The day of the super-turkey could be nigh.

Virginia Tech scientists announced this week they have secured funding to complete the genetic map of Meleagris gallopavo, the domesticated turkey. The U.S. Agriculture Department has awarded a two-year, $908,000 grant to Virginia Tech and the University of Minnesota to finish decoding the turkey, one of a few species to be mapped at the genetic level. Turkeys are the fourth-leading source of meat on dinner tables. Cows, chickens and pigs have already been genetically catalogued.

The possibilities for genetic manipulation seem endless. At a bare minimum, the turkey might be genetically engineered to convey a bit more flavor. And turkeys aren’t the most comely of birds; could they be bred for better looks as well as taste? How about a turkey that arrives pre-stuffed? Or with thighs thick enough for the NFL?

University scientists say genetic mapping will help turkeys lead healthier lives. Breeders will come to know how the turkey immune system works, and how to fight off such pathogens as bird flu.

But this is not all about the interests of the turkey. One goal of genetic mapping is to identify genes that might produce larger breasts, or plumper legs — potential breakthroughs for the diner and the renaissance fair vendor, to be sure, but without much payoff for the bird.