Forensic Entomologist

Necrophagous and non-necrophagous insects form a very important group in the colonization of cadavers (Amendt et al, 2004). The presence and quantity of different insect populations changes during different stages of decomposition and is highly susceptible to temperature and climatological variations (Graph 1, Graph 2). Above ground the body temperature during active decay stages is much higher than the soil and air due to the metabolic rates of dipterous larvae and bacteria and will increase decomposition. By examining the life cycles and patterns of carrion insects present, the forensic entomologist can draw conclusions regarding PMI.  There are seasonal variances in the development and species that may be present on a corpse. Arthropods are among the most useful insects to a forensic entomologist and fly puparia can indicate season or a more accurate interval even months after death (Haglund and Sorg, 1997; Rodriguez, 1985). An open wound (such as a gunshot wound) and blood is an attractive ground for various species of fly oviposition and for maggot activity to accelerate decomposition (Dix and Graham, 2000; Mann Et al 1990).