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.
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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.