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Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology
Published in: Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology 4/2011

01-12-2011 | Continuing Medical Education Review

Forensic entomology: applications and limitations

Authors: J. Amendt, C. S. Richards, C. P. Campobasso, R. Zehner, M. J. R. Hall

Published in: Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology | Issue 4/2011

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Abstract

Forensic entomology is the science of collecting and analysing insect evidence to aid in forensic investigations. Its main application is in the determination of the minimum time since death in cases of suspicious death, either by estimating the age of the oldest necrophagous insects that developed on the corpse, or by analysing the insect species composition on the corpse. In addition, toxicological and molecular examinations of these insects may help reveal the cause of death or even the identity of a victim, by associating a larva with its last meal, for example, in cases where insect evidence is left at a scene after human remains have been deliberately removed. Some fly species can develop not only on corpses but on living bodies too, causing myiasis. Analysis of larvae in such cases can demonstrate the period of neglect of humans or animals. Without the appropriate professional collection of insect evidence, an accurate and convincing presentation of such evidence in court will be hampered or even impossible. The present paper describes the principles and methods of forensic entomology and the optimal techniques for collecting insect evidence.
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Metadata
Title
Forensic entomology: applications and limitations
Authors
J. Amendt
C. S. Richards
C. P. Campobasso
R. Zehner
M. J. R. Hall
Publication date
01-12-2011
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology / Issue 4/2011
Print ISSN: 1547-769X
Electronic ISSN: 1556-2891
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12024-010-9209-2

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