LABOULBENIALES - Agentschap voor Natuur en Bos

1. INTRODUCTION1.1. FORENSIC ENTOMOLOGYForensic science is a multidisciplinary field, comprising different kinds ofapproaches (MILDENHALL et al., 2006). One field of forensic science is that offorensic entomology, combining the study of insects and other arthropods withthe criminal investigation. When forensic entomology is involved, the insectsbecome part of the evidence.The major use of forensic entomology is to estimate the time of death or thepost mortem interval (PMI) of a corpse, based on the insects invading thedead body. Both the time it has taken for the insects to reach the body forlaying eggs and the rate of development need to be considered whenestimating a (minimum) PMI.Species identification is the most crucial element in forensic entomology.Species that appear almost the same to the naked eye may have differentgrowth rates, behaviours and habitat preferences. Members of the ordersDiptera and Coleoptera are vital in forensic entomology (cfr. Table XII).Major fly familiesCalliphoridaeSarcophagidaeMuscidaePiophilidaeScathophagidaeSepsidaeSphaeroceridaeStratiomyidaePhoridaePsychodidaeTable XII: Important fly and beetle families for forensic entomology.Major beetle families(order Diptera)(order Coleoptera)SilphidaeDermestidaeStaphylinidaeHisteridaeCleridaeTrogidaeScarabaeidaeNitidulidae1.2. ANIMAL CADAVERS1.2.1. SOURCES OF BIODI VERSI TYAn animal consists for the greater part of carbohydrates, lipids and proteins.When it dies, these high quality nutrients become available for otherorganisms. The cadaver offers a temporary living for many invertebrates.Animal cadavers represent the most important source of biodiversity (pers.comm. DIRK RAES, 2010). MELIS et al. (2004) suggest to leave cadavers in foreststo better stimulate a natural environment, since they have a significantecological impact.1.2.2. THE „ROTTING‟ OF A CADA VER (SC H I L T H UI Z E N & V A L L E N D U U K, 1998)The cadaver of an animal undergoes quick and considerable changes. This„rotting‟ takes place in a few stages:P a g e | 46