Which type of organism is designated as a model organism?

A model organism is specifically chosen for research purposes because it possesses particular characteristics that make it advantageous for studying biological processes. These characteristics often include a short life cycle, ease of manipulation in a laboratory setting, and the ability to be bred in large numbers. Model organisms are typically well-characterized in terms of their genetics and physiology, which allows scientists to extrapolate findings from these organisms to understand similar processes in other species, including humans.

For example, organisms like fruit flies (Drosophila melanogaster), mice, and zebrafish are all considered model organisms. Researchers use them to study developmental biology, genetic processes, and various diseases due to their well-mapped genome and the availability of genetic tools. Identifying the right species with favorable traits—like those that respond well to genetic mutations or environmental changes—makes them invaluable in scientific research, leading to significant discoveries in medicine, genetics, and other fields.