Caenorhabditis elegans is a transparent worm about 1 mm in length that lives in soil. The name is a blend of the Greek caeno- (recent), rhabditis (rod-like) and Latin elegans (elegant). C. elegans has been used as a model organism in scientific research since 1963. It was chosen because it is one of the simplest organisms with a nervous system, it is easy to grow in bulk populations, and is convenient for genetic analysis. It is a multicellular eukaryotic organism, yet is simple enough to be studied in great detail. Its transparency facilitates the study of cellular differentiation and other developmental processes, in particular neural development. C. elegans was the first multicellular organism to have its whole genome sequenced.

This pattern makes a worm about 10cm long.

Materials
• DK weight yarn in black and white or cream.
• 3.5mm crochet hook
• Yarn needle
• Pipecleaner (this is strictly optional, but highly recommended to make the worm poseable).