What is model organism ? Describe the characteristics that signify Drosophila melanogaster as model organism.
Solution:
A model organism is usually a non-human organism that has been thoroughly studied to get a better understanding of specific biological processes. It is done with the hope that findings gained in the model organism can help scientists comprehend the functioning of other life.
Following are some characteristic features of Drosophila melanogaster that makes it a significant model organism:
1. Small size : Because of its small size one doesn't need to make huge enclosures for fruit fly. It not only makes it easy to handle but also less expensive.
2. Shorter life span: Since, its life cycle is short many fruit flies can be created in very short period of time. This helps in studying genetics and different mutations in the organism. It also, is favourable to study events in developmental biology (the embryo takes appropriately 24 hours to emerge after fertilization).
3. Minimum culturing requirement
4. Gene manipulation: Drosophila has only 4 pair of chromosomes. They carry all the genes essential for its survival. Furthermore, the genome is sequenced and we know it carries around 15,000 genes ( humans have appropriate 20,000 genes). Thus genetic and molecular biology studies can be done with ease.
5. Phenotypic study: Its anatomical features like presence of legs, wings, and compound eye etc, makes it a easy tool to study phenotype manifestations of genetic manipulation. Genetic markers can be identified using this model. Behavioural and circadian rhythm associated studies can also be performed.
A model organism is usually a non-human organism that has been thoroughly studied to get a better understanding of specific biological processes. It is done with the hope that findings gained in the model organism can help scientists comprehend the functioning of other life.
Following are some characteristic features of Drosophila melanogaster that makes it a significant model organism:
1. Small size : Because of its small size one doesn't need to make huge enclosures for fruit fly. It not only makes it easy to handle but also less expensive.
2. Shorter life span: Since, its life cycle is short many fruit flies can be created in very short period of time. This helps in studying genetics and different mutations in the organism. It also, is favourable to study events in developmental biology (the embryo takes appropriately 24 hours to emerge after fertilization).
3. Minimum culturing requirement
4. Gene manipulation: Drosophila has only 4 pair of chromosomes. They carry all the genes essential for its survival. Furthermore, the genome is sequenced and we know it carries around 15,000 genes ( humans have appropriate 20,000 genes). Thus genetic and molecular biology studies can be done with ease.
5. Phenotypic study: Its anatomical features like presence of legs, wings, and compound eye etc, makes it a easy tool to study phenotype manifestations of genetic manipulation. Genetic markers can be identified using this model. Behavioural and circadian rhythm associated studies can also be performed.