Model organism

A model organism is one which is studied to further our understanding of biological processes. Typical characteristics of model organisms include developing to maturity rapidly, the ability to be easily manipulated, having a short life span, producing a large number of offspring and to having a sequenced genome. Model organisms, if possible, need to have cheap sources and be non-pathogenic. Physiological and biochemical similarities to human cells are also useful in model organisms.

Model organisms may also have a specific feature that makes them useful for research. For example Drosophilla Melanogaster have giant, polytene, chromosomes which make chromosomal processes easier to study under the microscope.

Some widely used model organisms are S. cerervisiae, S. pombe, Drosophilia, C. elegans, Zebrafish and M. Musculus (mice).