Instructional Video

Paintbrush Gene

Curated and Reviewed by Lesson Planet

Drosophila includes more than 1,500 species and often find themselves studied by geneticists. A scientist presents a lecture on one example of these studies on the paintbrush gene. The gene determines the amount and color of pigment on the body and the spots on the wings. Each adaptation includes advantages and disadvantages in the natural world.

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CCSS: Adaptable
Additional Tags
Instructional Ideas
  • Compare the colors on the flies to the variation of colors on butterflies
Classroom Considerations
  • Relies on prior knowledge of genes, adaptation, and pigment
  • Allows for streaming or downloading to share with pupils
Pros
  • Links to other science videos on evolution
  • Works well in traditional or flipped classes
Cons
  • None