What is the difference between male and female fruit flies?
Male and female fruit flies belong to Drosophila melanogaster. The insect species are also known as vinegar fly or common fruit fly.
The main difference between male and female fruit flies is that male fruit flies are relatively small whereas female fruit flies are comparatively larger in size.
Comparison Table (Male vs Female Fruit Flies)
| Basic Terms | Male Fruit Flies | Female Fruit Flies |
| Definition | It is a small fruit fly with one large X chromosome and a tiny y chromosome as sex chromosomes | It is a large fruit fly with two large X chromosome as sex chromosomes |
| Body Size | Relatively smaller | Comparatively larger |
| The shape of Bottom Abdomen | Rounded at the bottom | Pointed at the bottom |
| Spikes | Absent | Present at the dorsal surface |
| Banding Patterns in the Abdomen | Have fewer strips where the last two are melded together and darker in colour | Have more strips with a thicker one band which is lighter in colour |
| Sex Comb | Have sex comb | Lack of sex comb |
| Choosing Mating Partner | Dance and brush against the female body | Choose a mate within 15 minutes |
| Laying Eggs | Do not lay eggs | Tend to lay eggs |
| Lifespan | Longer lifespan | Shorter lifespan |
What Are Male Fruit Flies?
These are small fruit flies that have one X chromosome and a tiny Y chromosome. These sex chromosomes help to distinguish male and female in genetics.
Male fruit flies have a rounded bottom abdomen which is darker in colour. Besides that, these tiny creatures have a sex comb.
What Are Female Fruit Flies?
These are large fruit flies that have two X chromosomes as sex chromosomes. It is the reason being the responsibility of laying eggs.
Female fruit flies have a point bottom abdomen which is lighter in colour. The last two bands are thicker. Besides that, they have numerous strips than their male counterpart.
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Main Difference between Male and Female Fruit Flies
- Male fruit flies are smaller whereas female fruit flies are larger
- The sex chromosomes of male fruit flies are X and Y chromosomes while female fruit flies take two X chromosomes
- Male fruit flies have sex comb whereas female fruit flies lack sex comb
- Male fruit flies have round bottom abdomen whereas female fruit flies have pointed bottom abdomen
- Female fruit flies tend to lay eggs whereas male fruit flies do not lay eggs
- Female fruit flies have more strips whereas male fruit flies have fewer strips
Similarities between Male and Female Fruit Flies
- Both belong to Drosophila melanogaster
- Both are common house pest
- Both are found on rotting fruit
- Both are commonly used in genetic research
Male vs Female Fruit Flies FAQs
How Can You Tell a Male From a Female House Fly?
Body size is a special feature that helps to tell the difference between male and female house fly. Research shows that female house fly is larger than a male housefly.
Do Fruit Flies Have Genders?
Yes. Female fruit flies are responsible for laying eggs and later hatch into offspring. The generation of the fly is spearheaded by sex reproduction.
Are Female Flies Bigger?
Yes. It is one of the key physical features that help to distinguish it from a male counterpart. The research shows that female flies are relatively larger than male flies.
Can Fly Eggs Hatch In Your Stomach?
Yes. It normally results in a condition known as Intestinal myiasis. The patient will experience abdominal pain, vomiting and diarrhoea.
What Is the Life Cycle of a Fruit Fly?
Fruit flies undergo four stages of development before attaining adulthood. The life cycle of a fruit fly is eggs to larva to pupa and finally adult.
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Comparison Video
Conclusion
Common fruit flies have two genders. The core difference between male and female fruit flies is that male fruit flies have smaller bodies while female fruit flies have bigger bodies.
These fruits fly under a complete metamorphosis where it starts with eggs to larvae to pupa then finally to adult. Keep in mind the fly eggs can hatch in the human body and result in a medical problem.
More Sources and References
- Intestinal Myiasis Caused By Common Fruit Flies. CDC
- Drosophila Oogenesis. Washington
- The Fly Manual. Tauber Lab