Analysis of lipolysis underlying lactation in the tsetse fly, Glossina morsitans

► Lipid metabolism during pregnancy in is essential for fecundity in tsetse. ► The lipolysis systems in tsetse consist of adipokinetic hormone stimulated lipolysis and brummer lipase mediated lipolysis. ► Lipolysis systems are conserved between tsetse and Drosophila. ► Brummer lipase functions to maintain hemolymph lipid homeostasis during oogenesis and pregnancy. ► AKH stimulated lipolysis functions in times of nutritional stress and during pregnancy when stored lipid levels are low.