Drosophila
Drosophila
Drosophila (/drəˈsɒfɪlə/), commonly known as the fruit fly, is a genus of flies belonging to the family Drosophilidae. The term "Drosophila", coined by William Bateson and Thomas Hunt Morgan in the early 20th century, is derived from the Greek words "drosos" (dew) and "phila" (lover), signifying the insect's affinity for moist or dewy environments.
Description
Drosophila are small, typically pale yellow to reddish brown to black, with red eyes. Many species, including the noted Drosophila melanogaster, have distinct black patterns on the abdomen. They are known for their rapid reproduction and relatively short life cycle, which have made them invaluable to genetic research.
Use in Research
Drosophila, particularly the species D. melanogaster, have been extensively used in genetics and developmental biology research for over a century. This is due to their short life cycle, relatively simple genome, and the ease with which they can be maintained and manipulated in the lab. Drosophila research has contributed to six Nobel Prizes in Physiology or Medicine.
Related Terms
- Drosophila melanogaster: A species of fruit fly widely used in genetic research.
- Drosophila simulans: A species of fruit fly closely related to D. melanogaster.
- Drosophila suzukii: Also known as the spotted wing drosophila, a pest of fruit crops.
- Drosophila hydei: A larger species of fruit fly commonly used in laboratory research.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Drosophila
- Wikipedia's article - Drosophila
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