Get the app →
BriefTea logoBriefTea

Every story in sixty words

Explained in plain English

Why map a fruit fly?

Fruit flies, despite their small size, are incredibly useful in scientific research. Their brains are complex enough to offer insights into fundamental brain functions, yet small enough to be fully mapped, unlike human brains. This detailed map helps scientists understand basic neurological processes and could inform research into human brain disorders.

Stories that explain this

Google maps fruit fly brain after ten-year project

Related explainers

What is a connectome? Who funded this research? What's 'simulated' mean? What is a 'dog fruit'? Why fly non-stop? What is fly-tipping? Why fly to Caernarfon? What is a 'forgotten fruit'?

The full catalogue

Browse every card filed under M →