Modified Capillary Feeder assay using micro-tips to measure real-time feeding in Drosophila

Capillary Feeder assay (CAFE) is a real-time feeding assay used in Drosophila that employs micro-capillaries, which are costly. Here, we present a modified version of the assay by replacing micro-capillaries with micro-tips, hence ensuring the same principle with cost reduction by 500 times. We developed a mathematical approach to measure volume for the conical shaped micro-tips. In this protocol, we describe step-by-step procedures of pre-assay setup along with fly rearing; assay setup included with detailed analysis for volume calculations. For further verification and use of this protocol, please refer to Segu and Kannan.¹.