Together with Buchnera aphidicola, Wigglesworthia has been the subject of genetic research into the minimal genome necessary for any living organism. Wigglesworthia also synthesizes key B-complex vitamins which the tsetse fly does not get from its diet of blood.
Genetic studies have focused on Wigglesworthia and Buchnera aphidicola to determine the smallest set of genes necessary for life.  Wigglesworthia is also capable of synthesizing vital B-vitamins, which the tsetse fly cannot acquire through its blood meal.