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Science Fruit fly moms use alcohol to protect their kids, say scientists

Researchers have observed fruit flies protecting their offspring from parasites by laying eggs in alcohol-laden environments. 

By Joseph CastroLiveScience Contributor / February 22, 2013

Photo courtesy of Todd Schlenke

It's not likely anyone would nominate a fruit fly for a "Best Mother of the Year" award — after laying her eggs, the insect hits the road, never to be heard from again. But it now turns out that fruit fly mothers aren't completely uncaring and actually try to give their offspring a fighting chance at life.