Drosophila Genome Targeted for Sequencing

     Researchers at Oregon State University are mapping the genome of Drosophila suzukii in order to better understand the invasive pest. This species of Drosophila leaves its larvae on fruit such as blueberries and raspberries, devastating the yield for farmers. Using an open-access website, the results of the genome mapping are being collected and shared for all to see. The hope is that a better understanding of the pest will result in better methods of combating it.



     This article is interesting in light of the research we did on Drosophila in lab, although we never used Drosophila suzukii. This research is not only useful for farmers, but it also advances science as a whole as we journey deeper and deeper into genetic mapping and the understanding of genomes. It's particularly exciting that the results are available for all who wish to view them, a good sign for the future of scientific research.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/12/131204091622.htm
http://www.freshplaza.com/article/115341/Spain-New-solution-against-fruit-fly-pests#SlideFrame_1