Explain how the embryo forms from the zygote

After an egg is fertilized, and has fused with sperm to form a zygote, an embryo begins to develop. The process in which an organism develops from a single-celled zygote to a multi-cellular organism is complex and well-regulated. The early stages of embryonic development are also crucial for ensuring the fitness of the organism.

What You’ll Learn to Do

• Discuss the role of cleavage in animal development
• Discuss the role of gastrulation in animal development
• Describe the process of organogenesis
• Identify the anatomical axes formed in vertebrates

Learning Activities

The learning activities for this section include the following:

• Cleavage and Blastula Stage
• Gastrulation
• Organogenesis
• Vertebrate Formation
• Self Check: Early Embryonic Development