The Accumulation, Reproductive Effects, and Survival Effects of Glyphosate-Based Herbicide on Drosophila melanogaster Larvae Compared to Adult Drosophila

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Glyphosate, the active ingredient in Roundup, is one of the most widely used herbicides in the world. Though commonly used, we have yet to understand Roundup toxicity in non-target animals sufficiently. It is especially important to determine the effects of glyphosate on larvae because developing organisms are generally more sensitive to toxins in every species. In this experiment, the accumulation, reproductive, and survival effects of glyphosate on Drosophila larvae will be tested. 10 adult males and 10 adult females will be assigned to each of five treatments containing Roundup (Ready to Use at 0.1 g/L and 1.0 g/L, and Super Concentrate at 0.1 g/L, 1.0 g/L, and 10.0 g/L) and organic medium as a control. Once adult flies lay eggs, the eggs will be transferred to vials of the same treatments. Larvae and newly developed flies will be sent to HRI Laboratory to determine glyphosate accumulation within the Drosophila body. Results from these tests will be analyzed to determine larval susceptibility to glyphosate compared to adults. By comparing egg production, time to pupation, and duration of pupation for Drosophila exposed to Roundup at different stages of life, we can assess the correlation with glyphosate concentration. These results can be applied to other non-target animals, including humans, that may have similar responses. This experiment will contribute greatly to the body of knowledge about the effects of glyphosate on Drosophila, since no previously published articles have considered the effects on larvae.