Question

a) Define forensic entomology.

b) Describe how we can estimate time of death of a corpse by analyzing the insect community on a decomposing body.

c) Describe 2-3 factors that influence the rate of decomposition of animal material

Answer 1

a. Forensic entomology is the study insects in criminal investigations. In the investigation of an unnatural death, the presence of insects can help to determine the time of death, whether the infividual had taken drugs prior to death, and the original site where the crime may have taken place.

b. As soon as death occurs, the body starts decomposing. Insects are attracted to the decomposing body due to the release of volatile molecules called apeneumones. Insects finf the death body as an apt site for laying eggs. The eggs hatch and maggots are released. Maggots rapidly grow through the three stages, reaching the full size. Inorder to estimate the time of death, we need to know the exact species that colonized on the dead body. Different species have different growth rates and maturation. By determing the age of the larva, the time of death can be estimated.

c. Rate of decomposition is affected by the following factors:

Temperature: colder temperatures decrease the rate of decomposition while warmer temperatures increase it.

Availability of oxygen:oxygen increases the rate of decomposition.

Embalming: Prior embalming dalays the process of decomposition.