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Blinded By The Light: How Artificial Blue Light Can Permanently Damage the Eyes of Drosophila melanogaster

CSEF · 2026 Zoology (Junior Division)

Adaline Butler

Overview

This experiment examined blue light damage to Drosophila melanogaster eyes and climbing ability. Fruit fly vials were exposed to three conditions for 5 days: 25-watt blue light, 60-watt blue light, and complete darkness (control). Different intensities tested whether stronger blue light caused greater damage. Bulbs were mounted on dome lamps and positioned to prevent light mixing. Climbing ability was measured by counting flies passing 19ml on a graduated cylinder every 30 seconds. Eye damage was assessed under a microscope. Both 25-watt and 60-watt groups showed lower climbing averages than the control group. Microscopic examination revealed more discolored spots and darker, damaged eye pigment in blue light-exposed flies compared to the control. Fruit flies exposed to blue light intensities demonstrated more eye damage and reduced climbing ability compared to the control group. These results support the hypothesis that blue light damages fly eyes and affects their physical performance.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2026 Zoology (Junior Division) · Entry J-20-10

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