Fruitfly

Fruit fly is a common name applied to numerous species of flies that are of importance due to their association with humans and their activities. The most notable of these is the Drosophila melanogaster, which is often used in genetic research. Other species, such as the Mediterranean fruit fly (Ceratitis capitata) and the Oriental fruit fly (Bactrocera dorsalis), are significant agricultural pests.

Biology

Fruit flies are small insects, typically 2-4 mm in length, with red eyes and a tan or yellowish body. They are known for their rapid reproduction and short life cycle, which has made them a popular model organism in biological research.

Fruit flies lay their eggs in rotting fruit, where the larvae feed on the yeast and bacteria that decompose the fruit. The larvae pupate and emerge as adults within a week, ready to mate and lay eggs of their own.

Genetics

The fruit fly, particularly Drosophila melanogaster, has been a key organism in the study of genetics. Its short life cycle and large number of offspring make it ideal for genetic experiments. The entire genome of D. melanogaster has been sequenced, providing a wealth of information about the genetic basis of development, behavior, and disease.

Economic Impact

Some species of fruit flies are significant pests in agriculture. They lay their eggs in ripening fruit, causing damage and making the fruit unsuitable for sale. Control measures include the use of insecticides, biological control agents, and the sterile insect technique, in which sterile males are released to mate with wild females, reducing the population.

In Popular Culture

Fruit flies have also made their way into popular culture, often used as a symbol of annoyance or insignificance. However, their importance in scientific research and their impact on agriculture make them anything but insignificant in the real world.

See Also

• Drosophila melanogaster
• Mediterranean fruit fly
• Oriental fruit fly
• Genetics
• Sterile insect technique