Your class is learning about genetic engineering and the use of model organisms. you are divided into groups to debate this topic. construct a statement defending the use of model organisms, such as the zebrafish, in this research.

Ans.

Genetic engineering involves manipulation of genetic material of an organisms to get desired characteristics.

Model organisms can be defined as organisms, which have been extensively studied and used to understand a specific biological phenomenon, because of having similar genetic makeup to other complex organisms. These organisms are easy to breed and maintain in laboratory environments and thus, are having many experimental advantages.

For example, zebrafish is used as model organism for studying in humans. They share about 70% genetic material with humans and 84 % of humans genes, associated with diseases have counterpart in zebra fish are common. They have same major tissues and organs as found in humans, such as kidney, eyes, muscle, and blood. So, studies in zebrafish can provide great insight into human disease mechanisms, without using humans and other animals.

Thus, zebra fish is a good choice to use a model organism in genetic engineering.