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Fruit flies
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Fruit flies
Fruit flies. Artwork of a male (left) and a female (right) fruit fly (Drosophila melanogaster). The first leg of the male fly has a sex comb (red, expanded at left of upper centre), which is not seen on the female. The comb is a useful way of sexing the fly, and is used by the male to sense a female. The females abdomen (lower right) is both broader and lighter than that of the male. The fruit fly gains its name from its liking for rotting fruit, which it eats and lays eggs in. It is also commonly used in genetic research as it breeds quickly and has a small number of chromosomes. Its chromosomes are large, making them easy to study and identify
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6461037
© LIZZIE HARPER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Adaptation Differences Drosophila Melanogaster Flies Fruit Fly Insecta Sexual Dimorphism Water Colour
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This print showcases the intricate world of fruit flies, specifically highlighting the distinct characteristics between a male and a female Drosophila melanogaster. The male fly, depicted on the left side, exhibits a fascinating feature known as a sex comb - an expanded red structure located at the upper center-left. This unique attribute is absent in its female counterpart, making it an essential tool for distinguishing between the sexes. Interestingly, this comb serves as more than just an identifier; it enables the male to detect and sense females during mating rituals. In addition to their dissimilarities in physical traits, there are noticeable variations in body shape and coloration between these two insects. The female's abdomen appears broader and lighter compared to that of the male, emphasizing sexual dimorphism within this species. Renowned for their preference for decaying fruits where they both feed and lay eggs, fruit flies derive their name from this peculiar dietary habit. Moreover, due to their rapid breeding cycle and possession of only a small number of chromosomes (which are conveniently large), these tiny creatures have become invaluable subjects for genetic research. Through this stunning watercolor illustration by Science Photo Library, we gain insight into not only the aesthetic beauty but also the scientific significance behind these remarkable invertebrates.
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