Acetabularia
Definition
Acetabularia is a genus of green algae known for its large, single-celled structure, making it a model organism in cell biology and genetics. It has been instrumental in studying cellular processes and nuclear-cytoplasmic interactions.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Acetabularia is unique because it is a giant unicellular organism with a complex morphology that includes a cap, stalk, and rhizoid.
- It was used by Joachim Hämmerling in the 1930s to demonstrate that genetic information in eukaryotic cells is stored in the nucleus.
- The species Acetabularia mediterranea and Acetabularia crenulata are commonly studied due to their distinct morphological features and ease of manipulation.
- Experiments with Acetabularia have shown that the regeneration of its cap can occur even if the nucleus is removed, highlighting cytoplasmic influence on development.
- Acetabularia's large size allows for easy observation under a microscope, making it an ideal subject for studies on morphogenesis and cellular differentiation.
Review Questions
- What key discovery about eukaryotic cells was demonstrated using Acetabularia?
- Why is Acetabularia considered an ideal model organism for studying cellular processes?
- Describe one experiment involving Acetabularia that highlights its importance in genetic research.
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Related terms
Chlamydomonas: A genus of unicellular green algae used as a model organism in molecular biology.
Nucleus: The membrane-bound organelle in eukaryotic cells that contains genetic material.
Morphogenesis: The biological process that causes an organism to develop its shape.
