kwarny's blog

Model genetic organisms are used to perform studies for better understanding of how the body functions and for genetic analysis. More specifically, systems of the body, such as the nervous system and digestive system, are closely observed over time. Drugs are also most commonly tested on model genetic organisms to collect results before being tested and available for human use. Aspects of model genetic organisms include having a short generation time and producing numerous offspring. This allows for transfer of genes and characteristics to be observed faster and therefore more efficient for the researcher. In addition, using models that are well known are most convenient to use. For example, mice is a common model organism because their bodily systems resemble those of humans. Not only are they easy to be reared in laboratories but they are also inexpensive to purchase. Research performed on model genetic organism have greatly contributed to advancements in medical treatment and the understanding of the transfer of genes today.

Viruses demonstrate properties of life and properties of non-life, which makes them difficult to categorize as living or nonliving. However, they fall into both categories that ultimately puts them in a category of their own. Living properties of viruses include having genetic material (DNA, RNA), ability to reproduce with a host cell, and being able to evolve through mutations. On the other hand, viruses belong in the nonliving group because they do not have a metabolism or organelles, cannot maintain homeostasis, and do not grow and develop, which all living cells can accomplish. The most important aspect of viruses is that they are not able to multiply without host cells. These cells are crucial for viruses because they reproduce by attaching themselves to a specific host cell and injects its genetic material into it. Soon after, the host cell lyses and the replicated viruses are released to proceed the same cycle, resulting in greater viral genetic material in its environment.

The legs of the worm are essential for movement, especially for survival. By close observation, the legs near the front of the body are slightly longer and pointed. Further towards the back of the body, the legs are shorter and more stubby. These differences may be a result of the development of the worm that is still in process. Moreover, the shape of the body follows a bilateral symmetry as one side resembles a lot like the other side. For example, on each side there are about eight brown spots with one spot on each segment piece of the body. Lastly, the worm moves in a wave-like movement. Scrunching specific parts of its body one at a time allows that part to be lifted and then shifted forward. The mechanism produces a cascade of motion within its segments in the body to encourage movement.

The object in the container is a living worm or shrub. It has a soft yellowish brown body color with a brown face. There are multiple lines on its back that represents the numerous segments that make up the body. The worm is eating some particles of food but does it have teeth? How does it ingest nutrients? Another observation is its legs, which appear to be in pairs. How many are there in total? The legs are essential for movement, especially in search for food. Looking closely, the legs near the front of the head are slightly longer and pointed. Further towards the back of the body the legs are shorter and more stubby. The shape of the body follows a bilateral symmetry as one side resembles a lot like the other side. On each side, there are about eight brown spots with one spot on each segment piece of the body. The worm moves in a wave-like movement. It scrunches parts of its body to lift and then shift forward. It produces a cascade of motion within its segments in the body to move.