Fruit flies
Scientific name: Tephritidae
Fruit flies
Scientific name: Tephritidae
Description
The Tephritidae, commonly referred to in less scientific circles as 'fruit flies,' are not to be confused with the ordinary household pests hovering over your bananas. These members of the Tephritidae family exhibit a fascinating array of colors and patterns on their wings, often used in mating displays and territorial disputes. Contrary to what one might expect, their larvae play a significant role in ecosystems by aiding in the decomposition of fruits, thereby recycling nutrients and even influencing plant reproduction strategies through their interactions with flowers and fruits.