Fruit Fly
Scientific name: Drosophila melanogaster
Tiny insect that has enabled key discoveries about inheritance, development and evolution.
Quick facts
- Approximate size3–4 mm
- Average weightVery low
- Life expectancyWeeks
- ActivityDiurnal
Basic information
- Habitat: kitchens, fruit shops, forests, and orchards where there is ripe or fermenting fruit.
- Diet: yeasts and microorganisms on decomposing fruits, as well as the fruit juices themselves.
- Sexual dimorphism: males somewhat smaller, with darker abdomen and wing spots in some strains.
- Predators: spiders, other insects, birds, and numerous predators of small invertebrates.
Life in the wild
How this species lives in its natural environment, with the climate, shelters and resources it needs.
Species overview
The fruit fly is an example of how a common insect can become a key tool for science.
Natural habitat
It appears anywhere there is fermenting fruit or sweet plant matter in decomposition.
Behavior
Adults fly erratically around fruits and search for suitable places to lay eggs.
Special features
Its relatively simple and well-studied genome makes it an ideal model for genetic experiments.
Conservation and threats
It is not threatened; its main use is in basic research and education.
Curiosities
Striking details about this species that show its biology and ecology in a different way.
- It has a very short life cycle, which facilitates observing multiple generations in a short time.
- It has been fundamental in the development of modern genetics.
- It is used in thousands of laboratories worldwide.
- Different laboratory strains can have visible mutations such as white eyes or curly wings.
Welfare profile
Aspects to consider if this species is kept in captivity in specialized centers.
Space and facilitiesMedium
In the laboratory it is kept in jars with standard culture media and controlled densities.
Environmental conditionsMedium
Handling and sacrifice must follow ethical and biosecurity standards appropriate to the type of project.
Handling and stressLow
It is not an insect intended for keeping as a "pet", but as a study tool.
Fruit Fly in captivity
General information aimed at professional facilities and authorized centers.
⚠️ Before keeping insects like this species, it is important to consult local regulations and always consider whether it is really necessary to remove them from their natural environment.
Suitable facilities
Ideal for simple educational experiments on inheritance and life cycle.
Feeding in responsible centers
It requires little space and cheap materials, making it accessible to many centers.
Handling and welfare
It is advisable to avoid massive escapes, although the environmental impact is usually low.
Ethical message
It allows illustrating how the scientific method works in practice.
Whenever possible, it is preferable to observe insects in their natural environment, promote favorable habitats (flowers, ponds, hedges) and use captive breeding only for justified educational or conservation purposes.