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Multiple Choice
Why did Thomas Hunt Morgan choose Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) for his genetics experiments?
A
They naturally exhibit very few mutations.
B
They are large organisms that are easy to dissect.
C
They are closely related to humans at the genetic level.
D
They have a short generation time and produce many offspring.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the importance of model organisms in genetics: Scientists choose organisms that allow for efficient and clear observation of genetic principles.
Consider the characteristics that make an organism suitable for genetic studies, such as short generation time, large number of offspring, ease of maintenance, and observable traits.
Recognize that Drosophila melanogaster (fruit flies) have a short generation time, meaning they reproduce quickly, allowing multiple generations to be studied in a short period.
Note that fruit flies produce many offspring, increasing the sample size for genetic crosses and making it easier to observe inheritance patterns and mutations.
Conclude that these features (short generation time and many offspring) make Drosophila melanogaster an ideal organism for genetic experiments, which is why Thomas Hunt Morgan chose them.