Final answer:
True, organisms of the same species generally have the same set of genes that define their species, providing them with similar characteristics and behaviors for reproduction, yet they also possess genetic variation within the species.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement 'In general, organisms that are the same species have the same genes' is True but requires some clarification. While it is accurate that organisms of the same species share a set of genes that define their species, individual members of a species also exhibit genetic variation. This genetic variation is seen in the form of different alleles for the same genes, leading to diversity within the species. Each organism inherits a specific combination of alleles from its parents, which contributes to its unique genetic makeup. However, the fundamental gene set that characterizes the species remains consistent, ensuring that members of the same species have similar characteristics and behaviors that are crucial for successful reproduction.
Contained within the DNA of an organism are all the genes that develop into both external and internal characteristics, such as size and shape. Because members of the same species share a high level of DNA alignment, they express traits that make them recognizable as part of the same species and enable them to reproduce successfully. It's also important to note that while humans and bacteria are vastly different organisms, they share aspects of the same genetic code, allowing for the possibility of transferring genes across species boundaries, as seen in the production of human proteins from genes inserted into bacteria.