Drosophila sharpi facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Drosophila sharpi |
|
|---|---|
| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom: | |
| Phylum: | |
| Class: | |
| Order: | |
| Family: | |
| Genus: | |
| Subgenus: |
Drosophila
|
| Species: |
D. sharpi
|
| Binomial name | |
| Drosophila sharpi Grimshaw, 1901
|
|
| Synonyms | |
|
Drosophila attigua |
|
The Drosophila sharpi (also known as D. attigua) is a very special and rare type of fly. It's one of several species called Hawaiian picture-wing flies because of the cool patterns on their wings. This tiny insect is found only in Hawaii, specifically on the island of Kauai. Sadly, it's an endangered species, meaning it's at high risk of disappearing forever. The United States government officially listed it as endangered in 2010.
Contents
What is Drosophila sharpi?
Drosophila sharpi is a small insect that belongs to the same family as the common fruit fly you might see in your kitchen. However, this species is much rarer and only lives in a specific part of the world. It's part of a group of flies known for their beautiful, patterned wings.
Why is it called a Hawaiian picture-wing fly?
Many Drosophila species in Hawaii have unique and often colorful patterns on their wings. These patterns are like tiny works of art, which is why they are called "picture-wing" flies. Each species has its own special design.
Where Does This Fly Live?
This fly has a very specific home. It lives in wet forest habitats on the island of Kauai. You can find it at elevations between about 3,000 and 4,000 feet (which is roughly 900 to 1,200 meters) above sea level. These forests are very damp and full of unique plants, which the fly needs to survive.
What Does "Endemic" Mean?
When a species is described as "endemic" to a place, it means that it naturally lives only in that specific area and nowhere else in the world. So, Drosophila sharpi is endemic to Kauai, meaning you won't find it living naturally on any other island or continent.
What Does Drosophila sharpi Eat?
Drosophila sharpi is a microbivore. This means it eats tiny living things like bacteria and fungi. It finds its food on decomposing, or rotting, plant material. Scientists believe it likely feeds on decaying parts of specific Hawaiian trees, such as Cheirodendron and Tetraplasandra. This diet is an important part of its life cycle in the forest.
Why is Drosophila sharpi Endangered?
Being an endangered species means that a plant or animal is in danger of becoming extinct, or disappearing forever. The Drosophila sharpi was officially listed as endangered in 2010 because its population is very small and it faces many threats.
Threats to the Fly
The main reasons this fly is endangered include:
- Habitat loss: Its forest home is shrinking due to human activities and invasive plants.
- Invasive species: Other plants and animals brought to Hawaii can harm the fly or its food sources.
- Climate change: Changes in weather patterns can affect the wet forests where it lives.
Protecting this tiny fly helps protect the unique Hawaiian forests it calls home.
