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Glite Dictionary
Drosophilidae

Drosophilidae

9.9
A family of small fruit flies often used in science
  • noun
  • /ˌdrɒsəˈfɪlɪdi/
  • Specialized
translation icon : Drosophilidae
  • Drosophilidae are commonly used in laboratories to study genetic mutations in fruit flies.

Examples

  • Because of its short life cycle, Drosophilidae is ideal for experiments on inheritance.

  • Several species within the Drosophilidae family infest ripening fruit in kitchens and orchards.

  • Scientists often study the Drosophilidae family to understand genetics and evolution.

  • The Drosophilidae family includes many species of fruit flies.

  • Researchers often use Drosophilidae in genetic studies.

  • Researchers often prefer Drosophilidae for experiments due to their rapid life cycle.

  • In genetic research, Drosophilidae provide valuable insights into the mechanisms of heredity.

Synonyms

family Drosophilidae
vsDrosophilidae
  • Specialized
8.0

A group of small flies called fruit flies often used in research about genes

focuses on broader use as model organisms across scientific research

Compounds

family Drosophilidae
  • Specialized
8.0

A group of small flies called fruit flies often used in research about genes

Surface Forms

Drosophilidae singular
Drosophilidae plural

Morphology

Drosophilidae = Drosophila (opaque) = Drosophila + idae

Formed from the genus name plus the specialized Latin taxonomic suffix '-idae' meaning 'family', which is not predictable to general learners.

Etymology

The word Drosophilidae comes from Greek parts drosos ('dew') and phila ('loving'), and the ending -idae marks it as a 'family' of animals. The name means 'dew-loving' because these small fruit flies gather on moist, ripe fruit, which is why Drosophilidae refers to the family of fruit flies often used in research.