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Multiple Choice
Why is Caenorhabditis elegans considered an appropriate model organism for studying developmental processes?
A
It requires complex and expensive laboratory equipment.
B
It has a simple and well-characterized genome.
C
It has a very long lifespan, allowing for extended observation.
D
It is a vertebrate, closely related to humans.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand what a model organism is: A model organism is a non-human species that is extensively studied to understand particular biological phenomena, with the expectation that discoveries made in the model will provide insight into the workings of other organisms.
Identify the characteristics of Caenorhabditis elegans: It is a nematode (roundworm) that is simple, transparent, and has a short lifecycle, making it easy to study in a laboratory setting.
Consider the genetic aspects: C. elegans has a simple and well-characterized genome, which means its genetic makeup is fully mapped and understood, allowing researchers to easily study gene function and regulation.
Evaluate the relevance to developmental biology: The simplicity of C. elegans, combined with its well-characterized genome, makes it an ideal organism for studying developmental processes, as researchers can observe the effects of genetic changes on development.
Compare with other organisms: Unlike vertebrates, C. elegans is not closely related to humans, but its simplicity and genetic tractability make it a powerful model for understanding basic biological processes that are often conserved across species.