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López-García J, Martín-Vega D. Influence of photoperiod on the developmental times of the forensically relevant blow fly species Calliphora vicina (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Forensic Sci Int 2024; 361:112141. [PMID: 38971139 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2024.112141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2024] [Revised: 07/02/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/08/2024]
Abstract
Blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are frequently used in forensic investigations due to their rapid colonization of cadavers. As with other insects, environmental temperature strongly influences their developmental rates. While published research has typically explored not only the impact of the environmental temperature, but also of other factors like tissue type and drug presence on developmental rates, the influence of photoperiod on the developmental rates of forensically relevant blow fly species has remained largely underexplored. Understanding the relationship between photoperiod and developmental times is crucial, as neglecting this aspect could compromise the accuracy of minimum post-mortem interval (minPMI) estimations. The present study investigates the impact of three photoperiod conditions (0:24, 8:16, and 12:12 light:darkness) on the developmental rates of Calliphora vicina, focusing on the duration of the different immature stages and on the total developmental time. Our results revealed significant variation in the intra-puparial stage and total development time across different photoperiods. Notably, a 12:12 photoperiod led to a significantly prolonged intra-puparial stage and total development time compared to the 0:24 photoperiod, suggesting that Calliphora vicina develops faster in total darkness. These findings highlight the importance of considering photoperiod in both laboratory rearing protocols and forensic casework to improve the accuracy and reliability of minPMI estimations. In this regard, preliminary guidelines and recommendations are provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime López-García
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad de Alcalá, Ctra. Madrid-Barcelona, km 33.6, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid 28805, Spain.
| | - Daniel Martín-Vega
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad de Alcalá, Ctra. Madrid-Barcelona, km 33.6, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid 28805, Spain; Instituto Universitario de Investigación en Ciencias Policiales, Calle Libreros, 27, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid 28801, Spain.
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2
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Beaumont C, Cabon F, Larquier C, Azémar F, Braet Y, Pelozuelo L. Carrion insects living within the bones of large mammals: insect conservation and forensic entomology implications. THE SCIENCE OF NATURE - NATURWISSENSCHAFTEN 2024; 111:30. [PMID: 38758365 DOI: 10.1007/s00114-024-01916-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 05/18/2024]
Abstract
Succession patterns of carrion insects on large mammal's carrion has been widely studied, notably to estimate the post-mortem interval in forensic investigations as accurately as possible. However, little attention has been paid to the carrion insects living inside these bones once a carcass is skeletonized. One very recent study documented flies emerging from pig carcasses, and only scarce authors reported the presence of other carrion insects taking advantage of the bone marrow. We, thus, aimed to (1) estimate the frequency of inner-bone space colonization by carrion insects, with particular attention to bone-skipper flies; (2) identify the insects living inside the carrion bones; and (3) determine whether or not carrion insects found within the bones can successfully exit the bones and complete their development. We extensively sampled 185 large mammals' bones collected from twelve vulture feeding stations and four isolated carcasses in southwest France and northern Spain. Sampled bones were opened, and the insects found inside were identified. For two bones, foramen, i.e., the holes providing a natural entrance and exit to the bone's inner cavity, was monitored with a camera to assess the insect's putative exit. We describe the entomofauna, i.e., the set of insect species, living within the bones, and illustrate insects' ability to exit the bones for their subsequent development and maturity. These results are discussed in the framework of carrion insect conservation and forensic entomology perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clément Beaumont
- Laboratoire d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse INP, Université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse Cedex 09, France
- Master Biodiversité Ecologie, Evolution, Parcours Gestion de La Biodiversité, Université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse Cedex 09, France
| | - Flavien Cabon
- Laboratoire d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse INP, Université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse Cedex 09, France
- Master Biodiversité Ecologie, Evolution, Parcours Gestion de La Biodiversité, Université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse Cedex 09, France
| | - Corentin Larquier
- Laboratoire d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse INP, Université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse Cedex 09, France
- Master Biodiversité Ecologie, Evolution, Parcours Gestion de La Biodiversité, Université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse Cedex 09, France
| | - Frédéric Azémar
- Laboratoire d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse INP, Université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse Cedex 09, France
| | - Yves Braet
- Laboratoire Microtraces/Entomologie, Institut National de Criminalistique Et de Criminologie, Chaussée de Vilvoorde 100, B-1120, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Laurent Pelozuelo
- Laboratoire d'Ecologie Fonctionnelle et Environnement, Université de Toulouse, CNRS, Toulouse INP, Université Toulouse 3-Paul Sabatier, 118 Route de Narbonne, 31062, Toulouse Cedex 09, France.
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3
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Hodecek J, Fumagalli L, Jakubec P. All insects matter: a review of 160 entomology cases from 1993 to 2007 in Switzerland-part I (Diptera). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2024; 61:400-409. [PMID: 38157316 PMCID: PMC10936168 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjad164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 11/22/2023] [Accepted: 12/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Necrophagous Diptera are the most important group of insects used for the purposes of forensic entomology. While the most utilized fly family in this context is the family Calliphoridae, there are several other families that can be of great importance during real-case investigations. This article analyzes the necrophagous flies of all families recorded from 160 real cases in Switzerland between 1993 and 2007. A total of 56 species belonging to 16 families was identified with Calliphoridae being the most dominant family (90.63% of all cases), followed by Muscidae (26.25%), Sarcophagidae (19.38%), Phoridae (14.38%), and Fanniidae (12.50%). For specimens that were difficult to identify morphologically, a new PCR primer has been specifically designed for the amplification of a short, informative COI barcode in degraded museum samples of forensically important Diptera taxa. The richest family in terms of species was the family Muscidae with 16 species. Fannia fuscula (Fallen) and Fannia monilis (Haliday) were recorded from human cadavers for the first time. The study highlights the importance of different fly families in forensic investigation, enhancing our comprehension of their prevalence and dispersion in real cases in Central Europe. The results pave the way for additional exploration, especially regarding the involvement of less frequently observed species in forensic entomology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiri Hodecek
- Swiss Human Institute of Forensic Taphonomy, University Centre of Legal Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Musée Cantonal de Zoologie, Palais de Rumine, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luca Fumagalli
- Swiss Human Institute of Forensic Taphonomy, University Centre of Legal Medicine, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Laboratory for Conservation Biology, Department of Ecology and Evolution, Biophore, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pavel Jakubec
- Department of Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Suchdol, Czech Republic
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Zhang Y, Li L, Liao M, Kang C, Hu G, Guo Y, Wang Y, Wang J. Development of Megaselia scalaris at constant temperatures and its significance in estimating the time of death. Int J Legal Med 2024; 138:97-106. [PMID: 37016192 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-02993-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Megaselia scalaris (Schmitz, 1938) (Diptera: Phoridae) is a common insect in forensic science that is frequently found in indoor cases, particularly on corpses in closed environments. Although this species is useful for estimating the minimum postmortem interval (PMImin) in the absence of Calliphoridae, there is a lack of data on its development in China. Herein, we studied the development of M. scalaris exposed to seven constant temperatures ranging from 16 to 34 °C. The mean (± SD) developmental durations of M. scalaris from egg to adult stage at 16, 19, 22, 25, 28, 31, and 34 °C were 1486.9 ± 75.3, 823.7 ± 42.8, 448.2 ± 59.8, 417.7 ± 19.7, 297.2 ± 27.3, 272.9 ± 10.4, and 253.0 ± 5.0 h, respectively. The mean (± SE) lower developmental threshold temperature (TL) and the thermal summation constant (K) were determined by a linear model as 12.69 ± 0.3 °C and 4965.8 ± 227.9-degree hours, respectively. A nonlinear model estimated the lower developmental threshold temperature, intrinsic optimum temperature, and upper lethal developmental threshold temperature as 14.58, 21.00, and 34.15 °C, respectively. We established three development models to estimate the age of the immature insect, namely the isomegalen diagram, isomorphen diagram, and thermal summation model. In addition, a regression analysis of the relationship between body length and total development time from hatching to pupariation was performed. Our findings provide a basis for applications of M. scalaris in PMImin estimations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Liangliang Li
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Mingqing Liao
- Criminal Police Branch, Zhongshan Public Security Bureau, Zhongshan, China
| | - Chengtao Kang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Gengwang Hu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China.
| | - Jiangfeng Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China.
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Hu G, Li L, Zhang Y, Shao S, Gao Y, Zhang R, Wang Y, Zhang Y, Guo Y, Kang C, Wang J, Wang Y. A global perspective of forensic entomology case reports from 1935 to 2022. Int J Legal Med 2023; 137:1535-1553. [PMID: 37410176 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-023-03053-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Forensic entomology case reports are the product of rapid development in the field, the widespread acceptance of the science and the application of forensic entomological knowledge. In this study, we retrospectively summarized information derived from 307 forensic entomology case reports from 1935 to 2022 from a global perspective. Our checklist of relevant information included insect species, specific indoor or outdoor preferences, preferred temperatures, and stages of body decomposition. Finally, a concept and calculation method for postmortem interval (PMI) estimation accuracy was proposed. There were 232 cases using insect developmental data and 28 cases using succession patterns to estimate PMI. A total of 146 species of insects were involved in the cases, of which 62.3% were Diptera and 37.7% were Coleoptera. Postmortem intervals were estimated from eggs in 4 cases, larvae in 180 cases, pupae in 45 cases, and puparia in 38 cases. The majority of cases were from June to October, and the average number of species mentioned in the cases was more at 15-30 °C. Considering the standardization of application, in the majority of cases, insect evidence was collected by other personnel and sent to forensic entomologists, there was a delay in the sampling, and the scene or meteorological data were directly used without correcting. Our data shows that there are still many shortcomings in the universality and standardization of forensic entomology in its practical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gengwang Hu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Liangliang Li
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yingna Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
- Department of Pathology, Shihezi University School of Medicine, Shihezi, Xinjiang, China
| | - Shipeng Shao
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yundi Gao
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Ruonan Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yinghui Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yanan Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yi Guo
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Chengtao Kang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Jiangfeng Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China.
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Shang Y, Amendt J, Wang Y, Ren L, Yang F, Zhang X, Zhang C, Guo Y. Multimethod combination for age estimation of Sarcophaga peregrina (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) with implications for estimation of the postmortem interval. Int J Legal Med 2023; 137:329-344. [PMID: 36538108 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02934-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Sarcophaga peregrina (Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) is a forensically important flesh fly with potential value for estimating the minimum postmortem interval (PMImin). Here, the developmental patterns of S. peregrina were investigated at 5 constant temperatures (15-35 °C). Morphological changes at different developmental stages of the pupa were observed at 4 constant temperatures (15-30 °C) by removing the puparium and staining the pupa with hematoxylin and eosin. Furthermore, differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were analyzed at 25 °C in the intrapuparial period to estimate the age of S. peregrina during the intrapuparial stage. S. peregrina completed development from larviposition to adult eclosion at 15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, and 30 °C; the developmental durations were 1090.3 ± 30.6 h, 566.6 ± 21.9 h, 404.6 ± 13.01 h, and 280.3 ± 4.5 h, respectively, while the development could not be completed at 35 °C. The intrapuparial period of S. peregrina was divided into 12 sub-stages on the basis of the overall external morphological changes; 6 sub-stages on the basis of individual morphological structures such as the compound eyes, antennae, thorax, legs, wings, and abdomen; and 10 sub-stages on the basis of internal morphological changes detected using histological analysis. The period of each sub-stage or structure that appeared was determined. Moreover, we found that 6 genes (NDUFS2, CPAMD8, NDUFV2, Hsp27, Hsp23, and TPP) with differential expression can be used for the precise age estimation of S. peregrina during the intrapuparial period. This study provided basic developmental data for the use of S. peregrina in PMImin estimation, and we successfully estimated PMImin in a real forensic case by using a multimethod combination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanjie Shang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Soochow University, Ganjiang East Road, Suzhou, 215000, China
| | - Lipin Ren
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Fengqin Yang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Xiangyan Zhang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Changquan Zhang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
| | - Yadong Guo
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, 410013, Hunan, China.
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Maisonhaute JÉ, Forbes SL. Decomposition and insect succession on human cadavers in a humid, continental (Dfb) climate (Quebec, Canada). Int J Legal Med 2023; 137:493-509. [PMID: 36334122 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02903-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Forensic entomology has been developing globally for decades. Despite this discipline being used in criminal investigations around the world, only a few controlled studies have been performed on human cadavers in human decomposition facilities, with the majority of these being conducted in warm and often dry climates. Therefore, the purpose of our research was to catalogue the first published data on insects associated with decomposed human bodies in a humid, continental (Dfb) climate. Specifically, our objective was to document the diversity and succession of the entomofauna associated with human cadavers throughout the decomposition process, in the Quebec province of Canada, during the summer season. Two human cadavers were studied in 2020 at the site for Research in Experimental and Social Thanatology, REST, located in Bécancour (Quebec, Canada). Insects (and other arthropods) were regularly sampled by visual observations, collection from the cadavers, and by using an entomological net and pitfall traps. Our results highlight that the decomposition process is a heterogeneous and complex process in Quebec, with cadavers showing signs of precocious desiccation/mummification. In addition, our observations confirm that the presence of superficial skin lesions accelerates the colonization of blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and, consequently, the process of decomposition. Finally, we were able to discriminate between "early colonizers" (e.g., Calliphoridae Lucilia sp. or Calliphora livida), "late colonizers" (e.g., larvae of Piophilidae or Heleomyzidae), and "non-specific colonizers." We also officially report the first observation of Cochliomyia macellaria (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in Quebec. These findings will provide new information to help medico-legal death investigations by determining the minimum time elapsed since death and the circumstances surrounding death.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shari L Forbes
- Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, 3351, Boul. des Forges, Trois-Rivières (Qc), G8Z 4M3, Canada
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Falk S, Mulley JF. The genome sequence of the bluish flesh fly, Sarcophaga ( Robineauella) caerulescens (Zetterstedt, 1838). Wellcome Open Res 2023; 8:17. [PMID: 37363063 PMCID: PMC10288162 DOI: 10.12688/wellcomeopenres.18718.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 07/22/2023] Open
Abstract
We present a genome assembly from an individual male Sarcophaga caerulescens (the bluish flesh fly; Arthropoda; Insecta; Diptera; Sarcophagidae). The genome sequence is 597 megabases in span. Most of the assembly is scaffolded into seven chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the assembled X and Y sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 21.1 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 16,559 protein coding genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Falk
- Independent researcher, Kenilworth, Warwickshire,, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - John F. Mulley
- School of Natural Sciences, Bangor University, Bangor, Wales, UK
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Brownlow L, Young S, Fernández-Grandon M, Hopkins RJ. Case closed - Wrappings and encasement delays and reduces fly presence on body parts. Forensic Sci Int 2023; 342:111542. [PMID: 36566613 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 12/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Homicide, particularly where a body has been concealed, is uniquely challenging for investigators to estimate the time of occurrence due to the methods employed by perpetrators to hide the body or its constituent parts from detection. The regularity of necrophagous insect lifecycles to determine minimum post-mortem interval (minPMI) is widely employed but remains an unreliable technique if used without a clear understanding of the factors that affect insect access and oviposition behaviour to concealed remains. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of wrapping body parts on fly colonisation and implications for minPMI calculations. Field studies were carried out using four treatments of pork (as surrogate body parts), in five replicates, one unwrapped, the other three wrapped in either a black plastic sack, a small-zipped wash bag (to simulate a suitcase), or a plastic sack further placed in a wash bag. Over a 48-h period all the methods of wrapping significantly disrupted the host-finding process of blowflies to dismembered carcasses, with a delay of initial contact and oviposition of 30+h (dependant on wrapping) and even more in wet conditions (48+ h). Egg numbers were also reduced by as much as 99.1% on wrapped samples compared to unwrapped. These new findings highlight the importance of applying adjustments to minPMI calculations when encountering wrapped remains. Advances in the accuracy of minPMI calculations will prevent the waste of valuable police time and resources and better focus the search for witnesses and suspects in homicide investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linda Brownlow
- School of Science, Faculty of Engineering and Science, University of Greenwich, Medway, Central Ave. Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK.
| | - Stephen Young
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Medway, Central Ave. Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Mandela Fernández-Grandon
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Medway, Central Ave. Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
| | - Richard J Hopkins
- Natural Resources Institute, University of Greenwich, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Medway, Central Ave. Chatham Maritime, Kent ME4 4TB, UK
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Szpila K, Johnston NP, Akbarzadeh K, Richet R, Tofilski A. Wing measurements are a possible tool for the identification of European forensically important Sarcophagidae. Forensic Sci Int 2022; 340:111451. [PMID: 36150278 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2022.111451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The flesh flies are a group of insects well known for their forensic importance. Reliable identification of these flies relies on the use of either molecular markers or the morphology of the male genital apparatus. Identification of female flesh flies is more time consuming and less reliable than their male counterparts. This is particularly problematic for forensic entomology practitioners, because female flesh flies are more abundant than males in carrion arthropod assemblages. As such, it is critical that alternative methods for flesh fly identification are established that are equally effective for both sexes. One promising technique is the use of wing measurements, which have been shown to be reliable for the identification of some groups of necrophagous Diptera from several geographical regions. We applied this method to the European Sarcophagidae for the first time, using a dataset of 881 specimens representing 29 species and 5 genera. Species identifications were based on 15 landmarks located at wing vein junctions. We also combined our results with data from previous studies of Calliphoridae and Muscidae which utilised the same methodology, enabling the testing of family level identification using wing morphometrics. Species identifications using wing measurements had varied success. While some species were successfully identified without error, others, particularly from the genus Sarcophaga, were often misclassified. Notably, in several species wing measurements successfully identified both males and females. The results presented here suggest that wing measurements are a promising complementary method to other methods for the identification of necrophagous Sarcophagidae especially in material unsorted at the family level. It can also be used to double check identification performed by a taxonomist using traditional methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Szpila
- Department of Ecology and Biogeography, Faculty of Biological and Veterinary Sciences, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, 87-100 Toruń, Poland
| | - Nikolas P Johnston
- School of Life Sciences, University of Technology, 15 Broadway Ultimo, Sydney 2007, Australia
| | - Kamran Akbarzadeh
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rene Richet
- 16 Grande Rue, 03220, Jaligny-sur-Besbre, France
| | - Adam Tofilski
- Department of Zoology and Animal Welfare, University of Agriculture in Krakow, 31-425 Krakow, Poland
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Cabanillas D. Ampliación de la distribución conocida de coleópteros, dípteros e himenópteros sarcosaprófagos (Arthropoda: Insecta) con potencial interés forense en la península ibérica. GRAELLSIA 2022. [DOI: 10.3989/graellsia.2022.v78.326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Con el objetivo de ampliar la distribución conocida y el conocimiento ecológico de las especies sarcosaprófagas con potencial interés forense en la península ibérica, se recopilan 758 nuevos registros correspondientes a 105 especies de coleópteros, dípteros e himenópteros en 43 provincias españolas y 4 distritos portugueses. Se registran un total de 89 primeras citas provinciales y se aportan numerosas localidades inéditas que permiten ampliar el rango de distribución conocido de la entomofauna sarcosaprófaga ibérica. Entre los resultados más relevantes destaca la expansión territorial de los dípteros alóctonos Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) y Hermetia illucens (Linnaeus, 1758) en la península ibérica. Además, se documentan hábitos sarcosaprófagos por primera vez en el formícido Hypoponera eduardi (Forel, 1894). Finalmente, se discuten los resultados ecológicos obtenidos en relación a las comunidades sarcosaprófagas y su potencial interés en estudios forenses.
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12
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Abdullah SR, Shafie MS, Wahid SA. Forensically important fly larvae on floating corpses in Malaysia: three case reports. EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s41935-022-00275-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Understanding how environmental conditions can influence the insect distribution on corpses is essential to determine the postmortem interval. However, literatures related to forensically important flies in an aquatic environment were scarce. We report herewith a case series comprising three forensic cases related to floating corpses infested with fly larvae in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Case presentation
Case 1 involved the corpse of a 43-year old male found in the waterside of an abandoned mine. Case 2 was a 40-year-old male floating on a river stream, while case 3 was an 11-year-old boy who was found trapped in a monsoon drain after heavy rain. Numerous larvae of various stages, identified as Chrysomya megacephala (Calliphoridae) species, were collected in all cases even though the number of larvae was relatively lower compared to those usually collected on corpses found on terrestrial areas. Besides, the larvae of Eristalis spp. (Syrphidae), which are known to be exclusively associated with water bodies, were found in two of the cases. The blowfly Ch. rufifacies (Calliphoridae) larvae were collected only in case 3.
Conclusions
These findings show that both Ch. megacephala and Ch. rufifacies can be found in the ecologically varied death scene habitats including aquatic areas. Meanwhile, the presence of Eristalis spp. can be used as an indicator of death location associated with an aquatic environment. The challenges and limitations of analyzing entomological evidence on bodies discovered in aquatic environments were also discussed.
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Martoni F, Piper AM, Rodoni BC, Blacket MJ. Disentangling bias for non-destructive insect metabarcoding. PeerJ 2022; 10:e12981. [PMID: 35228909 PMCID: PMC8881911 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/01/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
A fast and reliable method for obtaining a species-level identification is a fundamental requirement for a wide range of activities, from plant protection and invasive species management to biodiversity assessments and ecological studies. For insects, novel molecular techniques such as DNA metabarcoding have emerged as a rapid alternative to traditional morphological identification, reducing the dependence on limited taxonomic experts. Until recently, molecular techniques have required a destructive DNA extraction, precluding the possibility of preserving voucher specimens for future studies, or species descriptions. Here we paired insect metabarcoding with two recent non-destructive DNA extraction protocols, to obtain a rapid and high-throughput taxonomic identification of diverse insect taxa while retaining a physical voucher specimen. The aim of this work was to explore how non-destructive extraction protocols impact the semi-quantitative nature of metabarcoding, which alongside species presence/absence also provides a quantitative, but biased, representation of their relative abundances. By using a series of mock communities representing each stage of a typical metabarcoding workflow we were able to determine how different morphological (i.e., insect biomass and exoskeleton hardness) and molecular traits (i.e., primer mismatch and amplicon GC%), interact with different protocol steps to introduce quantitative bias into non-destructive metabarcoding results. We discuss the relevance of taxonomic bias to metabarcoding identification of insects and potential approaches to account for it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Martoni
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, State Government Victoria, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Alexander M. Piper
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, State Government Victoria, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia,School of Applied Systems Biology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Brendan C. Rodoni
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, State Government Victoria, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia,School of Applied Systems Biology, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
| | - Mark J. Blacket
- Agriculture Victoria Research, AgriBio Centre for AgriBioscience, State Government Victoria, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia
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Spatio-temporal distribution and habitat preference of necrophagous Calliphoridae based on 160 real cases from Switzerland. Int J Legal Med 2022; 136:923-934. [PMID: 35064810 PMCID: PMC9005434 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02769-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Necrophagous blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are of great importance particularly during investigations of suspicious deaths. Many studies have analyzed the distribution of blowflies based on pig experiments and baited trapping; however, data from real case scenarios are rarely used. In this article, the distribution of blowflies found during investigations of 160 real cases during 1993–2007 in Switzerland is evaluated based on habitat, altitude, and season. Ten species of blowflies were present in 145 out of the 160 cases. The most common species was Calliphora vicina, which occurs throughout the year and was present in 69 % of all cases. Lucilia sericata, Calliphora vomitoria, and L. caesar were identified among the rest of the flies as species of great forensic importance mainly due to their distributional patterns. After a comparison with a similar dataset from Frankfurt, Germany, some surprising differences were determined and discussed. The biggest discrepancies between our dataset and the German dataset were in the occurrences of L. sericata (30 % vs. 86 %, respectively), Phormia regina (5 % vs. 43 %), and L. ampullacea (1 % vs. 45 %). The life-history strategies and intraspecific behavioral variability of blowflies remain understudied, although they can be essential for an unbiased approach during a death investigation. Further research and comparison of occurrence patterns across the area of distribution of blowflies are therefore needed and recommended.
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Lutz L, Zehner R, Verhoff MA, Bratzke H, Amendt J. It is all about the insects: a retrospective on 20 years of forensic entomology highlights the importance of insects in legal investigations. Int J Legal Med 2021; 135:2637-2651. [PMID: 34591184 PMCID: PMC8523412 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02628-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study highlights the importance of insect evidence by evaluating 949 insect-associated cases, including 139 entomological reports, from 2001 to 2019 at the Institute of Legal Medicine Frankfurt/Germany. With a high number of cases in the summer months and a low number in the colder season, 78.5% of the bodies were found indoors, regardless of year or month. In more than 80% of the cases, where PMI information was available (n = 704), the presumed PMI ranged from 1 to 21 days, a period during which entomological evidence can provide a day-specific estimate of PMImin. In cases where insects have been identified to species level (n = 279), most bodies were infested by one or two species with a maximum of 10 different species. Overall, a total of 55 insect species were found. Information on biology, activity and distribution of the most abundant taxa is given and applied for 5 case histories estimating different PMImins of up to over 6 months. Despite proved importance and scientific development of forensic entomology, insects are still rarely considered as a tool in forensic case work. The main reasons are a lack of awareness and (too) late involvement of a forensic entomologist. Our work shows that forensic entomology is an independent discipline that requires specialist expertise.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Lutz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Richard Zehner
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Marcel A Verhoff
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Hansjürgen Bratzke
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt, Goethe-University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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Kaur P, Bala M, Abd Algalil FM. First record of flesh fly Sarcophaga (Liosarcophaga) aegyptica (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) from India. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF TROPICAL INSECT SCIENCE 2021; 41:1197-1202. [DOI: 10.1007/s42690-020-00307-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
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17
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Matuszewski S. Post-Mortem Interval Estimation Based on Insect Evidence: Current Challenges. INSECTS 2021; 12:314. [PMID: 33915957 PMCID: PMC8066566 DOI: 10.3390/insects12040314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2021] [Revised: 03/27/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
During death investigations insects are used mostly to estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI). These estimates are only as good as they are close to the true PMI. Therefore, the major challenge for forensic entomology is to reduce the estimation inaccuracy. Here, I review literature in this field to identify research areas that may contribute to the increase in the accuracy of PMI estimation. I conclude that research on the development and succession of carrion insects, thermogenesis in aggregations of their larvae and error rates of the PMI estimation protocols should be prioritized. Challenges of educational and promotional nature are discussed as well, particularly in relation to the collection of insect evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szymon Matuszewski
- Laboratory of Criminalistics, Adam Mickiewicz University, Święty Marcin 90, 61-809 Poznań, Poland;
- Wielkopolska Centre for Advanced Technologies, Adam Mickiewicz University, Uniwersytetu Poznańskiego 10, 61-614 Poznań, Poland
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18
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The Relationship between Research and Casework in Forensic Entomology. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12020174. [PMID: 33671186 PMCID: PMC7922124 DOI: 10.3390/insects12020174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Forensic entomology concerns the use of insects as evidence in legal investigations. Many sorts of investigation can benefit from an interpretation of insects associated with the crime scene, but insect evidence is most frequently used in investigations of death. The interpretation of insect evidence in casework is guided by the data supplied through research. Such data are essential to improve the casework interpretation of insect evidence, thereby improving the robustness of the legal systems in which it operates. This paper explores the mutually beneficial relationship between research and casework in forensic entomology, contrasting the different challenges that each presents and giving examples of how each can support the other in delivering results of real societal benefit. It is written from the perspective of the Criminal Justice System of England and Wales, but many of the points raised are relevant to legal systems worldwide. Abstract Research is a vital component of all forensic sciences and is often stimulated by casework, which identifies gaps in our knowledge. In such a niche area of forensic science as entomology there should be a close and mutually beneficial relationship between research and casework: to some extent there is a continuum between the two and many forensic entomologists are involved in both to a greater or lesser degree. However, research and casework involve quite differing challenges, from the replicated, highly controlled, sometimes esoteric aspects of research to the very individual, sometimes chaotic and disruptive, but highly applied aspects of casework. Ideally casework will include the full involvement of a forensic entomologist, who will collect the insect and climate evidence at the scene and produce a robust expert witness statement based on a full analysis of this data. Unfortunately, it can also include situations where samples, if collected at all, are poorly preserved, not representative of the full cadaver fauna available and presented to the entomologist months or years after the event, without local temperature data. While research is recognised through publications and their citation indices, casework and its associated expert witness statements often receive no credit in an academic workplace, although they do have a positive societal impact and many other benefits of teaching and public engagement value. This manuscript examines the relationship between research and casework from a UK perspective, to raise awareness of the need to create an environment that values the contribution of both, for future generations to flourish in both areas.
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To Be There or Not to Be There, That Is the Question-On the Problem of Delayed Sampling of Entomological Evidence. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12020148. [PMID: 33572161 PMCID: PMC7915408 DOI: 10.3390/insects12020148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Proper evidence sampling is at the heart of a sound forensic opinion and failure to follow the standards and guidelines can have serious consequences for the report and expert testimony in court. In casework, forensic entomologists often must base their expert opinion on information about the case and insect evidence provided by third parties, and this presents pitfalls. We analyzed two of those: delayed evidence sampling and the effect of low-temperature storage of the body prior to the autopsy. Our study shows that sampling at the scene is advisable to facilitate a sound entomological report and that the cooling sequence of a corpse must be completely tracked between its removal from the scene until the insect sampling. Abstract The aim of the current study was to analyze two major pitfalls in forensic entomological casework: delayed evidence sampling and the effect of low-temperature storage of the body. For this purpose, temperature profiles of heavily infested corpses during cooling and cases in which insect evidence was collected both at the scene and during autopsy were evaluated with regard to species composition and development stages found. The results show that the temperature in the body bags remained at higher average temperatures up to 10 °C relative to the mortuary cooler, therefore, sufficient for larval development, with significant differences in temperature between larval aggregations on one and the same body. In addition, we found large differences both in species number, species composition, and the developmental stages found at the scene and during the autopsy. These data and observations underscore the importance of sampling evidence at the scene and recording temperatures throughout the cooling period of a body.
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20
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Weidner LM, Nigoghosian G, Hanau CG, Jennings DE. Analysis of Alternative Food Sources for Rearing Entomological Evidence. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2020; 57:1407-1410. [PMID: 32249889 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjaa060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Forensic entomology is a well-established tool for evaluating the death, or abuse, of a person. Insect evidence provides valuable information as related to time of colonization and movement of remains from one location to another. Blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are commonly found on human remains throughout most stages of decomposition, and when entomological evidence is collected these taxa tend to be the most numerous. However, very few crime laboratories across the country have collection and rearing protocols for these forensically important insects. A lack of knowledge in collection techniques and limited access to an appropriate food source are the main reasons for absence in adequate collection and rearing protocols. Thus, when crime scene investigators or pathologists collect insects, they are often mishandled (e.g., placed into containers with no air holes, no food, or a food source that is not sustainable for their development). To address this issue, we analyzed easily accessible and cost-efficient alternative food sources for blow flies; specifically, tuna and wet cat food compared to beef liver (control). Survivorship and development were examined for each food source using the blow flies Phormia regina (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) and Cochliomyia macellaria (Fabricus) (Diptera: Calliphoridae). These findings provide an overview of possible alternatives that could be used as a sustainable food source in crime laboratories when immediate action from a forensic entomologist cannot be obtained.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren M Weidner
- School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences, Arizona State University, Glendale, AZ
- Department of Entomology, Purdue University, W. Lafayette, IN
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Stay cool or get hot? An applied primer for using temperature in forensic entomological case work. Sci Justice 2020; 60:415-422. [PMID: 32873381 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2020.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The reliable reconstruction of the temperature conditions at a crime scene is still a great challenge in forensic-entomological case work. Despite many published standards and guidelines for reconstructing temperature, and studies analysing the influence of various factors on the accuracy on such reconstructions, there are astonishingly many cases in the literature in which the temperature at the place of discovery is not reconstructed at all, i.e. the most common method is using the data of the nearest meteorological weather station without any correlation with on-site data. This study summarizes the state of the art in temperature reconstruction from an entomological point of view and compares the application of generalized additive models (GAMs) and linear regression on the basis of hypothetical death scenarios with various post mortem intervals (PMI) and measurement periods for the correlation between crime scene and weather station. We show that GAMs i.e. analysing the potential delay effect of temperature within a day, are the tools of choice because they give better, i.e. more accurate estimations than linear regression in 95,6% of all analysed cases regardless of the PMI, body discovery site and correlation period. Nevertheless, each case and crime scene is unique and therefore each entomological expertise should discuss the possible strengths and weaknesses of its temperature reconstruction. Even if temperature is not or cannot be reconstructed for various reasons, a comparison of on-site data with those of a meteorological weather station is the minimum forensic experts should do.
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Matuszewski S, Mądra-Bielewicz A. Post-mortem interval estimation based on insect evidence in a quasi-indoor habitat. Sci Justice 2019; 59:109-115. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2018.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2018] [Revised: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/10/2018] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Paula MC, Michelutti KB, Eulalio ADMM, Piva RC, Cardoso CAL, Antonialli-Junior WF. New method for estimating the post-mortem interval using the chemical composition of different generations of empty puparia: Indoor cases. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0209776. [PMID: 30571776 PMCID: PMC6301778 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0209776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Most flies of forensic importance are in two superfamilies, the Muscoidea and the Oestroidea, with similar life stages including the puparium. Upon completion of metamorphosis the adult fly emerges from the puparium, leaving behind an exuvia that is of potential significance in forensic investigation. The empty puparium is a durable piece of entomological evidence lasting several years. Through the study of chemical compounds, specifically the hydrocarbons of these puparia, it is possible to identify the species, in addition to how long they have been exposed to weathering and for this reason, these parameters can assist forensic entomologists in estimating long-term postmortem interval (minPMI). In corpses that take a relatively longer time to decompose, insects may use the same corpses for several oviposition cycles. Therefore, the aim of this study was to develop a new method to determine the PMI based on chemical compounds of the puparia from different oviposition cycles of the fly Chrysomya megacephala. The chemical composition of 50 puparia from different cycles of oviposition were evaluated by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS). In total, 60 compounds were identified ranging from C18 to C34, 38 of those were common to all generations. Our results demonstrate that chemical profiles can be used to differentiate puparia collected from successive cycles, and therefore valuable in the estimation of minPMI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michele C. Paula
- Laboratório de Ecologia Comportamental, Centro de Estudos em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Entomologia e Conservação da Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados, Dourados, MS, Brazil
- * E-mail:
| | - Kamylla B. Michelutti
- Laboratório de Ecologia Comportamental, Centro de Estudos em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Aylson D. M. M. Eulalio
- Laboratório de Ecologia Comportamental, Centro de Estudos em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Entomologia e Conservação da Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados, Dourados, MS, Brazil
| | - Raul C. Piva
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Química, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - Claudia A. L. Cardoso
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Química, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
| | - William F. Antonialli-Junior
- Laboratório de Ecologia Comportamental, Centro de Estudos em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Entomologia e Conservação da Biodiversidade, Universidade Federal da Grande Dourados, Dourados, MS, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Recursos Naturais, Universidade Estadual de Mato Grosso do Sul, Dourados, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil
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Lutz L, Verhoff MA, Amendt J. Environmental factors influencing flight activity of forensically important female blow flies in Central Europe. Int J Legal Med 2018; 133:1267-1278. [PMID: 30483869 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-018-1967-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/07/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
In forensic entomology, evaluation of a possible delay between a person's death and insect colonization is crucial. We monitored the seasonal flight activities of the most abundant blow flies in an urban habitat in Frankfurt/Germany based on 152 sampling days between April and October 2017. Thirty-six thousand female specimens of 12 necrophagous taxa were sampled as a possible groundwork for establishing a prediction tool for the activity of certain forensically relevant taxa. The most abundant taxon was Lucilia sericata (n = 19,544), followed by Lucilia caesar (n = 8025), Calliphora vicina (n = 5224), and Lucilia ampullacea (n = 1834). Up to six environmental parameters were statistically significant predictors of fly presence, leading to unique patterns of seasonal and daily activity for all four species. In detail, our analysis proved that L. sericata is a sun-loving, high-summer species that dominates the warmer months and is mostly influenced by mean day temperature. In contrast, L. caesar seems to be a shade-loving species that dominates in autumn resp. late-season and is mainly influenced by mean day temperature and wind speed. The activity of L. ampullacea was highly related to mean day temperature and relative humidity. In contrast to all other species, C. vicina behaved differently, particularly due to its occurrence throughout the entire sampling interval and the higher tolerance limits for the measured abiotic parameters, especially temperature. The present study is groundwork for establishing a prediction tool for the flight and oviposition activity of forensically relevant taxa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Lutz
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt am Main, Goethe-University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Marcel A Verhoff
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt am Main, Goethe-University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, University Hospital Frankfurt am Main, Goethe-University, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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25
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Feddern N, Amendt J, Schyma C, Jackowski C, Tschui J. A preliminary study about the spatiotemporal distribution of forensically important blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in the area of Bern, Switzerland. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 289:57-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2018] [Revised: 05/06/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Szleszkowski Ł, Kadej M, Thannhäuser A, Tarnawski D, Jurek T. Ecological aspects of unusual findings of animals nesting inside a mummified human corpse in natural conditions. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 289:390-396. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 06/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Owings CG, Picard CJ. New Distribution Record for Lucilia cuprina (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in Indiana, United States. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2018; 18:5060814. [PMID: 30060212 PMCID: PMC6104636 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iey071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Determining range expansion for insect species is vital in order to evaluate their impact on new ecosystems and communities. This is particularly important for species which could be potentially harmful to humans or domestic animals. Lucilia cuprina Wiedemann (Diptera: Calliphoridae) can act as a facultative ectoparasite and has an extensive history as the primary inducer of sheep-strike in Australia, New Zealand, and Africa. We present here the first record of this species in Indiana, United States. Lucilia cuprina's range expansion northward in the United States may be indicative of changing environmental conditions conducive to the proliferation of this species into historically cooler climates. The presence of this species could significantly impact forensic death investigations utilizing dipteran larvae to estimate a minimum postmortem interval. If range expansion of this species is not taken into account by a forensic entomologist (especially if L. cuprina is not known previously in their region), an inaccurate minimum postmortem interval (PMIMIN) estimation may be made, given the differences in development times for both species. Therefore, the range expansion of this fly could have large impacts for many different entomological disciplines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charity G Owings
- Department of Biology, Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, SL, Indianapolis, IN
| | - Christine J Picard
- Department of Biology, Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis, SL, Indianapolis, IN
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Thermal conditions in selected urban and semi-natural habitats, important for the forensic entomology. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 287:153-162. [PMID: 29665482 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2017] [Revised: 03/24/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
A long-term study on thermal conditions in selected urban and semi-natural habitats, where human corpses are likely to be found, was conducted in the city of Lodz (Central Poland). Thermal data were collected during two years at nine sites and compared with corresponding data from the nearest permanent meteorological station at Lodz Airport (ICAO code: EPLL). The conditions closest to those at the meteorological station prevailed in the deciduous forest, coefficient of determination R2 for those sets of data was above 0.96. The open field was characterized by high daily amplitudes, especially during spring, while the site in the allotment gardens was characterized by relatively high winter temperatures. The conditions prevailing in all closed space sites were very diverse and only slightly similar to the external ones. The most distinct site was an unheated basement in a tenement house, where temperature was almost always above 0°C and daily amplitudes were negligible.
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Ren L, Shang Y, Chen W, Meng F, Cai J, Zhu G, Chen L, Wang Y, Deng J, Guo Y. A brief review of forensically important flesh flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae). Forensic Sci Res 2018; 3:16-26. [PMID: 30483648 PMCID: PMC6197121 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2018.1432099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/21/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Forensic entomology could provide valuable data for the minimum postmortem interval (PMImin) estimation and other relevant information, such as causes and circumstances of death. Some representatives of flesh flies are one of the dominant necrophagous insects during early stages of decomposition, demonstrating unique biological characteristics compared with other necrophagous flies. Moreover, they lead to global health concerns as carriers of various pathogenic micro-organisms, and dominantly result in the traumatic myiasis. Thus, sarcophagid flies are considered important in decomposition processes for PMImin estimation. However, the utility of sarcophagid flies has been seriously hampered by limited ecological, biological and taxonomic knowledge of them. The aim of this paper is to provide a brief review on the species, distribution and biological habit of forensically important sarcophagid flies. In addition, the relation between traumatic myiasis and flesh flies, molecular identification methods and developmental pattern of flesh flies are summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lipin Ren
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Yanjie Shang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Fanming Meng
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jifeng Cai
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Guanghui Zhu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Shantou University Medical College, Shantou, China
| | - Lushi Chen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Guizhou Police Officer Vocational College, Guiyang, China
| | - Yong Wang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jianqiang Deng
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hainan Medical University, Haikou, China
| | - Yadong Guo
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, China
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Robinson LA, Bryson D, Bulling MT, Sparks N, Wellard KS. Post-feeding activity of Lucilia sericata (Diptera: Calliphoridae) on common domestic indoor surfaces and its effect on development. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 286:177-184. [PMID: 29579718 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2018.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2018] [Accepted: 03/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Developmental data of forensically important blowflies used by entomologists to estimate minimum post mortem interval (mPMI) are established under controlled laboratory conditions for various temperature ranges throughout the stages of egg, 1st-3rd instar, puparia, and adult fly emergence. However, environmental conditions may influence the patterns of development and behaviour of blowflies, potentially impacting on these established development rates. Previous studies investigating indoor colonisation have focused on the delay to oviposition, with behaviour during the post-feeding phase in this setting often overlooked. The environment in which third instar larvae disperse when searching for a pupariation site may vary drastically at both outdoor and indoor scenarios, influencing the activity and distance travelled during this phase and possibly affecting developmental rates. This study investigated the effect of eight common domestic indoor surfaces on dispersal time, distance travelled, and behaviour of post-feeding Lucilia sericata as well as any resulting variation in development. It was found that pupariation and puparia length within a pupariation medium of sawdust (often used in laboratory settings) produced comparable results with that of carpeted environments (those deemed to be 'enclosed'). Non-carpeted environments (those which were 'exposed') produced a delay to pupariation likely due to increased activity and energy expenditure in searching for pupariation sites which enabled burial. In addition, the observed speed of travel during dispersal was seen via time lapse photography to be greater within 'exposed' conditions. Larvae which dispersed upon burnt laminate flooring were observed to travel faster than in all other conditions and showed the only significant variation (P=0.04) in the day of emergence in comparison to the control condition of sawdust. This study has demonstrated that wandering phase activity is affected by the environmental surface which has potential implications for estimating both the distance travelled by dispersing larvae in indoor conditions and with further research, may be a consideration in mPMI calculations.
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Affiliation(s)
- L A Robinson
- University of Derby, Forensic Science, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, UK.
| | - D Bryson
- University of Derby, Forensic Science, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | - M T Bulling
- University of Derby, Forensic Science, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | - N Sparks
- University of Derby, Forensic Science, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
| | - K S Wellard
- University of Derby, Forensic Science, Kedleston Road, Derby DE22 1GB, UK
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Ceciliason AS, Andersson MG, Lindström A, Sandler H. Quantifying human decomposition in an indoor setting and implications for postmortem interval estimation. Forensic Sci Int 2018; 283:180-189. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.12.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 12/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Moemenbellah-Fard MD, Keshavarzi D, Fereidooni M, Soltani A. First survey of forensically important insects from human corpses in Shiraz, Iran. J Forensic Leg Med 2018; 54:62-68. [PMID: 29324320 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2017.12.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2017] [Revised: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The presence of insects on human cadavers has potential judicial value in medicolegal cases. This research emphasized the important role of insects in postmortem decomposition. It was conducted to investigate the composition and abundance of insects from human corpses during autopsies in legal medicine. It was implemented in the city of Shiraz, south Iran. Insects associated with human corpses were carefully collected and put into labelled vials. They were then identified using valid taxonomic keys. Fifteen outdoor (67%) and indoor discovered cadavers were examined. All but one was covered at the time of discovery. From these several species of entomofauna played important roles in the minimum postmortem interval (minPMI) estimate. Insects included the orders of Diptera and Coleoptera. Overall, 14 different species of arthropods were identified. Within Diptera, 2 families of Sarcophagidae and Calliphoridae were present in 73% of the cases with Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy and Chrysomya albiceps Wiedemann accounting for about half of the cases. The latter family members, Calliphoridae, were more frequently (52%) collected in autumn and winter. Only 4/15 outdoor cadavers had beetles. Four species of Coleopterans; namely Dermestes frischii Kugelann, Nitidula flavomaculata Rossi, Creophilus maxillosus Linnaeus and Saprinus chalcites Illiger; were recorded for the first time from 3 corpses in Iran. The presence and diversity of different insects on human corpses could contribute to the advancement of forensic entomology knowledge and the refined estimates of minPMI in medicolegal cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad D Moemenbellah-Fard
- Research Centre for Health Sciences, Institute of Health, Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Davood Keshavarzi
- Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran; Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Mehran Fereidooni
- Department of Forensic Taphonomy, Shiraz Institute of Legal Medicine, Modarres Bvd., 71546-75891, Shiraz, Iran.
| | - Aboozar Soltani
- Research Centre for Health Sciences, Institute of Health, Department of Medical Entomology and Vector Control, School of Health, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran.
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Sanit S, Sukontason K, Kurahashi H, Tomberlin JK, Wannasan A, Kraisittipanit R, Sukontason KL. Morphology of immature stages of blow fly, Lucilia sinensis Aubertin (Diptera: Calliphoridae), a potential species of forensic importance. Acta Trop 2017; 176:395-401. [PMID: 28939496 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 09/16/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Lucilia sinensis Aubertin (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is a blow fly species of potential forensic importance since adults are attracted to, and colonize, decomposing vertebrate remains. Blow fly larvae associated with human corpses can be useful evidence in forensic investigations; however, their use is dependent in most cases on proper species identification and availability of developmental data. For identification, morphological information on each life stage is traditionally used. We used scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to examine the ultrastructure of eggs, all instars, and puparia, of L. sinensis. The important characteristics used to differentiate L. sinensis from other species are provided. Distinctive features of the eggs are the slight widening median area extending almost the entire length. The last abdominal segment of the first instar bears elongated outer ventral tubercles along the rim of the last abdominal segment. These tubercles, as well as the well developed median and outer dorsal tubercles, are more prominent in the second and third instars. The surface integument of the tubercles is equipped with circular rows of microtrichia. Pairs of inner dorsal tubercle are absent. Each anterior spiracle is comprised of 9-12 papillae arrange in a single row in the second and third instars. As for the third instar, the dorsal spines between the first and second thoracic segments are delicate, narrow, small, and close together (as row or set). The peristigmatic tufts adjacent to the posterior spiracle of the third instar are moderately branches of short, fine hairs, but minute in puparia. In conclusion, the prominent outer ventral tubercle in all instars and puparia is a new diagnostic feature of L. sinensis and helpful in differentiating it from other Lucilia species that are forensically important. The description of immature L. sinensis in this study will be useful for forensic entomologists in countries where this species exists.
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Charabidze D, Gosselin M, Hedouin V. Use of necrophagous insects as evidence of cadaver relocation: myth or reality? PeerJ 2017; 5:e3506. [PMID: 28785513 PMCID: PMC5543926 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.3506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 06/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of insects as indicators of post-mortem displacement is discussed in many texts, courses and TV shows, and several studies addressing this issue have been published. Although the concept is widely cited, it is poorly understood, and only a few forensic cases have successfully applied such a method. The use of necrophagous insects as evidence of cadaver relocation actually involves a wide range of biological aspects. Distribution, microhabitat, phenology, behavioral ecology, and molecular analysis are among the research areas associated with this topic. This article provides the first review of the current knowledge and addresses the potential and limitations of different methods to evaluate their applicability. This work reveals numerous weaknesses and erroneous beliefs as well as many possibilities and research opportunities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien Charabidze
- CHU Lille, EA 7367 UTML - Unite de Taphonomie Medico-Legale, Univ Lille, Lille, France
| | - Matthias Gosselin
- Research Institute of Biosciences, Laboratory of Zoology, UMONS - Université de Mons, Mons, Belgium
| | - Valéry Hedouin
- CHU Lille, EA 7367 UTML - Unite de Taphonomie Medico-Legale, Univ Lille, Lille, France
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Martín-Vega D, Martín Nieto C, Cifrián B, Baz A, Díaz-Aranda LM. Early colonisation of urban indoor carcasses by blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae): An experimental study from central Spain. Forensic Sci Int 2017; 278:87-94. [PMID: 28708988 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 06/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Due to their ubiquity and synanthropy, blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are generally the first colonisers of cadavers and, therefore, frequently used to estimate a minimum post-mortem interval (minPMI). Whereas in outdoor situations blow flies are expected to locate and colonise exposed cadavers within hours or even minutes after death, it is usually assumed that the colonisation of a cadaver indoors might be delayed for an uncertain period of time. This uncertainty severely limits the informativity of minPMI estimates based on entomological evidence. Moreover, these limitations are emphasised by the lack of experimental data on insect colonisation of indoor carrion and by the fact that most of the forensic cases involving entomological evidence have been reported to occur indoors. In this study we investigate the early colonisation of pig carcasses placed indoors in a building located in the centre of an urban environment in central Spain. Three carcasses were placed in three equal rooms with a window half opened during five experimental trials: summer 2013, autumn 2013, winter 2014, spring 2014 and summer 2014. The species composition and their contribution to the carrion colonisation differed among seasons. Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy was the sole coloniser of carcasses in winter and colonised the carcasses within the first 24-48h in every season, although Lucilia sericata (Meigen) was the first coloniser of most summer carcasses. On the other hand, Calliphora vomitoria (L.) and Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann) colonised the carcasses significantly later in spring and in spring and summer, respectively, with a delay of several days. In autumn, however, there were no significant differences in the colonisation times by C. vicina, L. sericata and Ch. albiceps. C. vicina and L. sericata showed a clear preference for ovipositing in the natural orifices of the carcasses, whereas Ch. albiceps oviposited more frequently on the trunk and legs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Martín-Vega
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain; Department of Life Sciences, Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD, United Kingdom.
| | - Carla Martín Nieto
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Blanca Cifrián
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Arturo Baz
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Luisa M Díaz-Aranda
- Departamento de Ciencias de la Vida, Universidad de Alcalá, 28805 Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
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Yang L, Wang Y, Li L, Wang J, Wang M, Zhang Y, Chu J, Liu K, Hou Y, Tao L. Temperature-dependent Development of Parasarcophaga similis
(Meade 1876) and its Significance in Estimating Postmortem Interval. J Forensic Sci 2017; 62:1234-1243. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13389] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2016] [Revised: 10/19/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lijun Yang
- Department of Forensic Medicine; Soochow University; Ganjiang East Road Suzhou China
| | - Yu Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine; Soochow University; Ganjiang East Road Suzhou China
| | - Liangliang Li
- Department of Forensic Medicine; Soochow University; Ganjiang East Road Suzhou China
- Judicial Appraisal Centre; Shandong University of Political Science and Law; Jiefang East Road Jinan China
| | - Jiangfeng Wang
- Department of Forensic Medicine; Soochow University; Ganjiang East Road Suzhou China
| | - Min Wang
- Department of Entomology; College of Agriculture; South China Agricultural University; Wushan Road Guangzhou China
| | - Yingna Zhang
- Department of Forensic Medicine; Soochow University; Ganjiang East Road Suzhou China
| | - Jun Chu
- Criminal Police Branch; Suzhou Public Security Bureau; Renmin Road Suzhou China
| | - Kun Liu
- Criminal Police Branch; Suzhou Public Security Bureau; Renmin Road Suzhou China
| | - Yiding Hou
- Criminal Police Branch; Suzhou Public Security Bureau; Renmin Road Suzhou China
| | - Luyang Tao
- Department of Forensic Medicine; Soochow University; Ganjiang East Road Suzhou China
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Connecting the Dots: From an Easy Method to Computerized Species Determination. INSECTS 2017; 8:insects8020052. [PMID: 28524106 PMCID: PMC5492066 DOI: 10.3390/insects8020052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2017] [Revised: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Differences in growth rate of forensically important dipteran larvae make species determination an essential requisite for an accurate estimation of time since colonization of the body. Interspecific morphological similarities, however, complicate species determination. Muscle attachment site (MAS) patterns on the inside of the cuticula of fly larvae are species specific and grow proportionally with the animal. The patterns can therefore be used for species identification, as well as age estimation in forensically important dipteran larvae. Additionally, in species where determination has proven to be difficult—even when employing genetic methods—this easy and cheap method can be successfully applied. The method was validated for a number of Calliphoridae, as well as Sarcophagidae; for Piophilidae species, however, the method proved to be inapt. The aim of this article is to assess the utility of the MAS method for applications in forensic entomology. Furthermore, the authors are currently engineering automation for pattern acquisition in order to expand the scope of the method. Automation is also required for the fast and reasonable application of MAS for species determination. Using filters on digital microscope pictures and cross-correlating them within their frequency range allows for a calculation of the correlation coefficients. Such pattern recognition permits an automatic comparison of one larva with a database of MAS reference patterns in order to find the correct, or at least the most likely, species. This facilitates species determination in immature stages of forensically important flies and economizes time investment, as rearing to adult flies will no longer be required.
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Olea MS, Patitucci LD, Mariluis JC, Alderete M, Mulieri PR. Assessment of Sampling Methods for Sarcosaprophagous Species and Other Guilds of Calyptratae (Diptera) in Temperate Forests of Southern South America. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2017; 54:349-361. [PMID: 28399291 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjw164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2016] [Accepted: 09/14/2016] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to compare three different collecting methods, namely, baited traps, active capture with hand net, and Malaise traps, to establish which method is more appropriate for sampling different Calyptratae guilds inhabiting temperate forests of South America. Specifically, it was analyzed which technique or combination of techniques is more adequate for obtaining sarcosaprophagous Calyptratae, which are of great interest from a veterinary and medical viewpoint. Taxa were classified into guilds according to their biology. Active capture was the technique that registered the highest diversity of guilds. When analyzing sarcosaprophagous species, it was observed that their percentage of captures, diversity, and abundance showed clear differences in guild composition between the trapping techniques studied. From these analyses it can be concluded that baited traps and active trapping are complementary methods for capturing sarcosaprophagous Calyptratae species. From the perspective of the biodiversity of this group, the combination of both methodologies allows obtaining a more complete inventory of sarcosaprophagous species of austral temperate forests of South America.
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Affiliation(s)
- M S Olea
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia" (MACN), Av. Ángel Gallardo 470, Buenos Aires C1405DJR, Argentina (; ; ; )
| | - L D Patitucci
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia" (MACN), Av. Ángel Gallardo 470, Buenos Aires C1405DJR, Argentina (; ; ; )
| | - J C Mariluis
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia" (MACN), Av. Ángel Gallardo 470, Buenos Aires C1405DJR, Argentina (; ; ; )
| | - M Alderete
- Facultad de Ciencias Naturales e Instituto Miguel Lillo (UNT), Miguel Lillo 205, 4000 San Miguel de Tucumán, Tucumán, Argentina
| | - P R Mulieri
- Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina, Museo Argentino de Ciencias Naturales "Bernardino Rivadavia" (MACN), Av. Ángel Gallardo 470, Buenos Aires C1405DJR, Argentina (; ; ; )
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Syamsa RA, Omar B, Ahmad FMS, Hidayatulfathi O, Shahrom AW. Comparative fly species composition on indoor and outdoor forensic cases in Malaysia. J Forensic Leg Med 2017; 45:41-46. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Darkness as factor influencing the oviposition delay in Calliphora vicina (Diptera: Calliphoridae). J Forensic Leg Med 2016; 44:98-102. [PMID: 27721180 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2016.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Revised: 09/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Many environmental and intrinsic factors (e.g. limited access to the body) can disrupt insect activity, causing a delay in the colonization of a corpse. These elements could hinder an accurate estimation of the minimum Post-mortem Interval (minPMI), raising questions about the limits of forensic entomology. Blow fly are considered mainly diurnal and relatively inactive at night, at extreme temperatures and in dark conditions. Data on their ability to lay eggs in darkness and in laboratory conditions are scarce. Oviposition by Calliphoridae during the day but in darkness has been documented in chimneys, cellars and cars. To investigate delays in oviposition in the dark we carried out laboratory experiments using plastic boxes containing Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy specimens placed in a climatic chambers at different temperatures. We found that C. vicina laid eggs in complete darkness inside the plastic boxes, but later than the specimens inside the boxes at light condition. We believe that oviposition can occur in dark indoor environments in conditions of optimal air temperature, gravid flies and an accessible corpse. However, when corpses are discovered in dark environments, entomologists should consider a significant delay in oviposition by blow fly in order to reduce errors in PMI estimation.
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Zuha RM, Ankasha SJ, Disney RHL, Omar B. Indoor decomposition study in Malaysia with special reference to the scuttle flies (Diptera: Phoridae). EGYPTIAN JOURNAL OF FORENSIC SCIENCES 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejfs.2015.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Muscle attachment site (MAS) patterns for species determination in five species of Sarcophaga (Diptera: Sarcophagidae). Parasitol Res 2015; 115:241-7. [PMID: 26391172 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4740-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 09/04/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
To further establish species determination using the muscle attachment site (MAS) pattern method, third instar larvae of five forensically important species of Sarcophaga Meigen were investigated: Sarcophaga argyrostoma (Robineau-Desvoidy), Sarcophaga caerulescens Zetterstedt, Sarcophaga melanura Meigen, Sarcophaga albiceps Meigen and Sarcophaga similis Meade. As in the previously investigated Calliphoridae, patterns were found to be species specific. The main feature of the Sarcophaga patterns is the divided central horizontal row of segment four. A genus pattern was established to be used as base for comparison in further species determination.
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Abdel-Hafeez EH, Mohamed RM, Belal US, Atiya AM, Takamoto M, Aosai F. Human wound myiasis caused by Phormia regina and Sarcophaga haemorrhoidalis in Minia Governorate, Egypt. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:3703-9. [PMID: 26122995 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4599-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2015] [Accepted: 06/18/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Myiasis is the parasitic infestation of human by the larvae (maggots) of dipterous fly that grow within the host while feeding on its tissue. Cutaneous myiasis is the most considerably encountered clinical form. Moreover, wound (traumatic) myiasis is the main clinical manifestation of cutaneous myiasis. In this research, we aimed to study the type of infesting larvae that are responsible for wound myiasis in the patients in Minia city, Egypt. Three cases of wound myiasis have been noticed among 280 patients with wounds at different parts of bodies. Two of them were diabetic patients. The third one had a history of hypertension with right side hemiplegia 2 years ago. All of them were elderly. The larvae removed from cases 1 and 3 were identified macroscopically and microscopically as the third-stage larvae of Sarcophaga haemorrhoidalis. The larvae removed from case 2 were the third-stage larvae of Phormia regina, which is very rare worldwide. In addition to the open and obsolete wound, diabetes mellitus and low socio-economic circumstances were shown to be attributed as important predisposing risk factors that led to the occurrence of myiasis in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekhlas H Abdel-Hafeez
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Minia University, Minia, 61519, Egypt
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Hayman J, Oxenham M. Peri-mortem disease treatment: a little known cause of error in the estimation of the time since death in decomposing human remains. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2015. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2015.1042048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Szpila K, Richet R, Pape T. Third instar larvae of flesh flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) of forensic importance--critical review of characters and key for European species. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:2279-89. [PMID: 25823900 PMCID: PMC4430590 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4421-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Necrophagous Sarcophagidae are among the insects most frequently reported from human corpses. The broad forensic application of flesh flies is restricted by the lack of reliable tools for species identification of larval stages and mass breeding of collected flesh fly larvae to the adult stage, and more recently DNA-based methods are usually recommended for precise species identification. To overcome this situation, the following study was implemented: (1) original larval material was obtained of the European flesh flies of confirmed or potential forensic importance; (2) larval morphology was studied and documented using a combination of standard light microscopy, image-stacking stereomicroscopy and SEM; and (3) larval characters used in previously published keys were critically revised. The taxonomic value of the following characters was considered insignificant: (1) differences in level of sclerotisation of particular parts of the cephaloskeleton, (2) level of sclerotisation of the posterior spiracular peritreme and (3) the shape of posterior spiracular slits. A high taxonomic value was noticed for the general shape of anterior spiracles, pattern of arrangement of their lobes, and distribution and shape of spines/warts on the inter-band area of segments. Two character states-long window in the dorsal cornu of cephaloskeleton and deep spiracular cavity on anal division-are not found in the Miltogramminae and therefore cannot be considered as family-specific for the entire Sarcophagidae. As a comprehensive result of our studies, an identification key is presented for the third instar larvae of European flesh flies of forensic importance. The key is user-friendly and requires no dissections of larvae, as soaking the material in methyl salicylate will allow observation of all diagnostic details of the cephaloskeleton. A simple stereomicroscope (magnification about ×50) is sufficient for the observation of all characters presented in the key. This key may be systematically extended by the addition of species present in adjacent geographical regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krzysztof Szpila
- Chair of Ecology and Biogeography, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, Nicolaus Copernicus University, Lwowska 1, 87-100, Toruń, Poland,
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Flesh flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) colonising large carcasses in Central Europe. Parasitol Res 2015; 114:2341-8. [PMID: 25876045 PMCID: PMC4430587 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-015-4431-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2015] [Accepted: 03/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Sarcophagidae are an important element of carrion insect community. Unfortunately, results on larval and adult Sarcophagidae from forensic carrion studies are virtually absent mostly due to the taxonomic problems with species identification of females and larvae. The impact of this taxon on decomposition of large carrion has not been reliably evaluated. During several pig carcass studies in Poland, large body of data on adult and larval Sarcophagidae was collected. We determined (1) assemblages of adult flesh flies visiting pig carrion in various habitats, (2) species of flesh flies which breed in pig carcasses, and (3) temporal distribution of flesh fly larvae during decomposition. Due to species identification of complete material, including larvae, females, and males, it was possible for the first time to reliably answer several questions related to the role of Sarcophagidae in decomposition of large carrion and hence define their forensic importance. Fifteen species of flesh flies were found to visit pig carcasses, with higher diversity and abundance in grasslands as compared to forests. Sex ratio biased towards females was observed only for Sarcophaga argyrostoma, S. caerulescens, S. similis and S. carnaria species group. Gravid females and larvae were collected only in the case of S. argyrostoma, S. caerulescens, S. melanura and S. similis. Sarcophaga caerulescens and S. similis bred regularly in carcasses, while S. argyrostoma was recorded only occasionally. First instar larvae of flesh flies were recorded on carrion earlier or concurrently with first instar larvae of blowflies. Third instar larvae of S. caerulescens were usually observed before the appearance of the third instar blowfly larvae. These results contest the view that flesh flies colonise carcasses later than blowflies. Sarcophaga caerulescens is designated as a good candidate for a broad forensic use in Central European cases.
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Sanford MR. Forensic entomology of decomposing humans and their decomposing pets. Forensic Sci Int 2015; 247:e11-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2014.11.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Revised: 11/11/2014] [Accepted: 11/27/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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Charabidze D, Hedouin V, Gosset D. An experimental investigation into the colonization of concealed cadavers by necrophagous blowflies. JOURNAL OF INSECT SCIENCE (ONLINE) 2015; 15:iev129. [PMID: 26496788 PMCID: PMC4622180 DOI: 10.1093/jisesa/iev129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Accepted: 09/29/2015] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
We used seven baited boxes with different combinations of access holes and odor diffusion surfaces to study the arrival of necrophagous flies. During laboratory experiments, 30 gravid Lucilia sericata females were kept in a chamber with one of the boxes. The box with the largest odor diffusion surface (99 cm(2)) combined with the lowest accessibility (one 1 cm(2) entrance hole) was entered least (5 ± 3.7 flies per run). In contrast, the most frequently entered box (one 9 cm(2) entrance hole with no additional odor diffusion surface) caught a mean of 24.6 ± 3.4 flies per run. These results indicate that 1) L. sericata entered nearly inaccessible places and 2) both odor diffusion and accessibility impacted the number of flies caught. During field experiments, the seven boxes were placed together outdoors. The box with the most entrances (ten 9-cm(2) holes) caught the most flies (55.6-99.4% of the total). Only a few flies entered the other boxes. Access to the less accessible boxes (poor odor diffusion and small entrances) was also delayed. The major conclusions of the field experiments are that 1) boxes with low accessibility took longer to be accessed; 2) larger odor diffusion surfaces were more attractive to flies; and 3) flies accessed boxes more readily through larger holes than through an equivalent surface area made up of smaller holes. With these conclusions in mind, attempts to quantify the preappearance interval or to interpret the number of flies observed in indoor forensic entomology cases should be approached with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Charabidze
- Univ Lille, UDSL, Forensic Taphonomy Unit, LILLE, France
| | - V Hedouin
- Univ Lille, UDSL, Forensic Taphonomy Unit, LILLE, France
| | - D Gosset
- Univ Lille, UDSL, Forensic Taphonomy Unit, LILLE, France
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Preliminary data on carrion insects in urban (indoor and outdoor) and periurban environments in central Spain. Forensic Sci Int 2014; 248:41-7. [PMID: 25594690 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2014.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 11/21/2014] [Accepted: 12/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Although most cases involving entomological evidence occur in urban environments and under indoor conditions, there is a lack of studies determining the insect fauna of forensic importance in those environments. In the current paper we provide the first data on the composition of the forensically important insect species occurring in periurban and both indoor and outdoor urban environments in central Spain. Insects were collected fortnightly by means of carrion-baited traps, uninterruptedly during one year. Most species and individuals were collected in the periurban site, whereas the indoor urban site showed the lowest number of species and captures. Moreover, the composition of species differed among environments and seasons. A few species occurred under both indoor and outdoor conditions, including the blowfly Calliphora vicina and some Sarcophagidae species. These preliminary results suggest interesting differences in the insect composition between environments and conditions which may be of forensic importance, and represent a first step to further research into the application of insects to forensic investigations in urban environments of central Spain.
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Bugelli V, Forni D, Bassi LA, Di Paolo M, Marra D, Lenzi S, Toni C, Giusiani M, Domenici R, Gherardi M, Vanin S. Forensic entomology and the estimation of the minimum time since death in indoor cases. J Forensic Sci 2014; 60:525-31. [PMID: 25400228 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2013] [Revised: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Eight cases that occurred indoors in which the insects played an important role in the mPMI estimation are presented. The bodies of socially isolated people and old people living alone were discovered in central Italy between June and November. mPMI ranged from a few days to several weeks. Insects were collected during the body recovery and the postmortem. Climatic data were obtained from the closest meteorological stations and from measurements performed on the site. Sarcophagidae and Calliphoridae species were present in 75% of the cases with Lucilia sericata and Chrysomya albiceps collected in 50% of the cases. Chrysomya albiceps was always found in association with Lucilia species. Scuttle flies (Phoridae) were found in 37.5% of the cases, confirming the ability of these species in indoor body colonization. We show that if sealed environment may delay, the insect arrival dirty houses may create the environment where sarcosaprophagous insects are already present.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Bugelli
- Dipartimento di Patologia - Unità di Medicina Legale-, Università di Pisa, via Roma 55, Pisa, 56126, Italy
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