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INSECT SUCCESSION ON CARRION: AN INTRODUCTION TO FORENSIC ENTOMOLOGY

Abstract

As a component of an entomology course, students were introduced to the science of forensic entomology. Students were required to observe and monitor the decomposition of pig carcasses to determine insect succession and stages of decay. Seven dead pigs were placed in various locations-some in an open field, some in wooded areas, some fully exposed to the elements, some partially buried-and monitored for five weeks. Insects and environmental data were collected in association with each carcass. Blow flies (Calliphoridae), flesh flies (Sarcophagidae), rove beetles (Staphylinidae), carrion beetles (Silphidae), clown/hister beetles (Histeridae), and skin beetles (Dermestidae) were some of the more common insects observed.

Acknowledgements

UWG Department of Biology

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