Fruit flies
- Pronunciation
- /FRU-it FLIES/
- Category
- Taxonomy
- Singular
- Fruit fly
- Plural
- Fruit flies
Definition
A common term for various species of flies belonging to the family Drosophilidae or Tephritidae, known for their association with fruit and agricultural crops.
Etymology
From the Latin words 'fructus' (fruit) and 'musca' (fly).
Example
Fruit flies are a major pest of many fruits and vegetables.
Related Terms
Usage Notes
The term 'fruit fly' can refer to species within the Drosophilidae or Tephritidae families, but often refers specifically to those species that infest fruit crops.