2. What characteristics of C. elegans make this species a useful tool for biological studies?

Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
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### Exploring *C. elegans* as a Model Organism in Biological Research

#### Inquiry:
2. What characteristics of *C. elegans* make this species a useful tool for biological studies?

#### Explanation:
*C. elegans*, or Caenorhabditis elegans, is a small nematode that has become a model organism in biological research due to several key features:

1. **Simple Anatomy**: *C. elegans* has a simple body plan, which makes it easier to study cellular development and organ functions.

2. **Transparent Body**: The transparency of these worms allows researchers to observe internal processes in vivo using microscopy.

3. **Short Life Cycle**: With a rapid life cycle of about 3 days at room temperature, *C. elegans* allows for quick observation of multiple generations.

4. **Genetic Tractability**: The genome is fully sequenced and easily manipulated, facilitating genetic studies and the identification of gene function.

5. **Conserved Biological Pathways**: Despite its simplicity, *C. elegans* shares many essential biological pathways with more complex organisms, including humans, making it relevant for studying human diseases.

6. **Ease of Culture**: They are easy to maintain in a laboratory, requiring minimal space and resources.

Understanding the fundamental biological processes in *C. elegans* provides insights into more complex organisms, including humans, making it a vital tool in various fields of biological research.
Transcribed Image Text:### Exploring *C. elegans* as a Model Organism in Biological Research #### Inquiry: 2. What characteristics of *C. elegans* make this species a useful tool for biological studies? #### Explanation: *C. elegans*, or Caenorhabditis elegans, is a small nematode that has become a model organism in biological research due to several key features: 1. **Simple Anatomy**: *C. elegans* has a simple body plan, which makes it easier to study cellular development and organ functions. 2. **Transparent Body**: The transparency of these worms allows researchers to observe internal processes in vivo using microscopy. 3. **Short Life Cycle**: With a rapid life cycle of about 3 days at room temperature, *C. elegans* allows for quick observation of multiple generations. 4. **Genetic Tractability**: The genome is fully sequenced and easily manipulated, facilitating genetic studies and the identification of gene function. 5. **Conserved Biological Pathways**: Despite its simplicity, *C. elegans* shares many essential biological pathways with more complex organisms, including humans, making it relevant for studying human diseases. 6. **Ease of Culture**: They are easy to maintain in a laboratory, requiring minimal space and resources. Understanding the fundamental biological processes in *C. elegans* provides insights into more complex organisms, including humans, making it a vital tool in various fields of biological research.
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