Canton-S

Canton-S is a widely used wild-type laboratory strain of Drosophila melanogaster, the common fruit fly used in genetics, development, behavior, and teaching labs. It is valued as a reference strain because it generally shows normal red eyes, normal wings, and the standard body form expected for the species. The strain name comes from laboratory stock history rather than a pet or livestock breed category, and different labs may maintain their own sublines over time.

Researchers and instructors keep Canton-S in small culture vials or bottles on prepared fly medium, with careful attention to temperature, crowding, contamination, and transfer schedule. Its practical value depends on consistent handling and clear stock identity, since mixed or mislabeled flies can affect experiments. Labs often use it as a comparison for mutant lines, behavior assays, crosses, or classroom demonstrations. Routine records should note source, generation timing, and any unusual change in vigor or appearance.

Colors: Wild Type