The “lab rat” of the plant world, Arabinopsis taliana’s genome was the first plant genome sequenced, making it essential for genetic studies.
A small flowering plant in the mustard family (Brassicaceae), its short life cycle and ease of genetic manipulation has made it a favorite subject for studying crop science and understanding how plants respond to drought, salinity and temperature extremes.
Though it has had limited direct practical applications in agriculture or industry due to its small size and lack of established economic value, Arabidopsis thaliana has remained a vital tool for advancing our understanding of plant biology and translating findings to other species.
Its growth under controlled conditions has even made it a candidate for space research, including studies on how plants grow in microgravity.
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Plant Fact: The Lab Rat of the Plant World
