Palynology

A forensic palynologist is a particular specialism of botany that involves  the study of pollen grains and spores as trace evidence (Walsh and Harrocks, 2003).

Any person in the particular vicinity of a plant releasing palynomorphs may acquire them on their clothing, hair, body and in their nostrils, ears and lungs.  The palynological profile can be highly accurate to a specific location and useful in placing people or objects at a scene as well as determining the time of year. The diversity of the palinological profile can vary to within a few meters within the same area.

It is possible to retrieve palynological trace evidence (inhaled during life) from the nasal cavity even when a corpse is fully skeletonised. Pollen and spores can remain on clothing and other objects for months and even years and retain palynomorphs even after they have been washed and dry cleaned following a crime. (Wilthire and Black, 2006; Wiltshire, 2006; Haglund and Sorg, 1997; Walsh and Harrocks, 2003; Mildenhall et al, 2006).