Image for elegans

elegans

*Caenorhabditis elegans* is a tiny, transparent roundworm commonly used in scientific research. Measuring about 1 millimeter, it has a simple body structure with a nervous system, muscles, and digestive tract. Researchers study it to understand basic biological processes like development, aging, and genetics because its cells are well-mapped, and it shares many genes with humans. Its transparency allows scientists to observe internal processes directly under a microscope. Despite its simplicity, C. elegans provides valuable insights into biology that can inform medicine, genetics, and developmental studies.