Drosophila, commonly known as fruit flies, are small insects belonging to the family Drosophilidae. They are often found in decaying fruit and are known for their rapid life cycle, which allows them to reproduce quickly. These flies are widely used in genetic research due to their simple genetic structure and the ease of breeding them in laboratory conditions. Researchers study Drosophila to understand fundamental biological processes, including genetics, development, and behavior. Their genetic makeup is similar to that of humans in many ways, making them valuable models for studying human diseases. The findings from Drosophila research have contributed significantly to the fields of genetics and developmental biology.