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Jones AK, Hidayah Shamsuddin N, Chin Heo C. Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae): A potentially forgotten forensically important species in Malaysia. Sci Justice 2024; 64:339-346. [PMID: 39025559 DOI: 10.1016/j.scijus.2024.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) has been collected in human forensic case work. This species is endemic in Malaysia but is not one of the most common species and is often found in outdoor cases. However, it is hypothesized that the presence of L. cuprina larvae may provide useful information in forensic case studies in Malaysia where this species has previously been ignored. This review will discuss the current background knowledge on L. cuprina, particularly when it comes to other forensic cases in Malaysia. General biology as well as key information for forensic work such as geographical distribution and developmental data will be reviewed. Finally, we discuss the potential for L. cuprina to provide beneficial and unique forensic insight into indoor cases with refuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby K Jones
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia.
| | - Nur Hidayah Shamsuddin
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Hospital Sungai Buloh, Jalan Hospital, 47000 Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Chong Chin Heo
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia; Institute of Pathology, Laboratory and Forensic Medicine (I-PPerForM), Universiti Teknologi MARA, Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, 47000 Sungai Buloh, Selangor, Malaysia.
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Badu IK, Asante D, Agyemang ED, Kwaku Duah K, Adokoh CK, Girela-Lopez E. Diatoms in maggots; a potential tool for drowning diagnosis - A preliminary study. MEDICINE, SCIENCE, AND THE LAW 2024:258024241241374. [PMID: 38557251 DOI: 10.1177/00258024241241374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
Advanced putrefaction causes extensive loss of soft tissue, rendering it difficult to use the diatom test as a reliable diagnostic tool for drowning investigations. A positive diatom test in carrion insect larvae may provide significant assistance in overcoming the challenge of decomposition. The studies determined the utility of diatom test in carrion larvae on severely decomposed bodies. A modified acid digestion method involving nitric acid, K2Cr2O7 and HCl, was used to digest the blowfly larvae feeding on piglet carrion previously drowned in freshwater and sea water, respectively. Extracted diatom frustules were analysed and characterised using light microscopy coupled to a digital camera. Diatoms recovered from maggots on sea-drowned piglets were similar to diatoms from sea water (drowning medium). Centric diatoms recovered in maggots were higher (200 ± 60 diatoms/ mL) than pennate diatoms (80 ± 20 diatoms/mL). Isolated diatoms common to both maggots and water samples included Coscinodiscus sp. and Navicular spp. Albeit, there were no diatoms recovered from maggots on freshwater-drowned piglets. The findings of this study suggest that the diatom test is still a reliable diagnostic tool to determine if drowning was involved in the death of a fully decomposed body. This is the first study that isolated diatoms from maggots feeding on drowned bodies. It serves as the basis for further research into the utility of maggots for drowning investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- I K Badu
- Department of Forensic Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - D Asante
- Department of Forensic Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - E D Agyemang
- Department of Forensic Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - K Kwaku Duah
- Department of Forensic Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - C K Adokoh
- Department of Forensic Sciences, University of Cape Coast, Cape Coast, Ghana
| | - E Girela-Lopez
- Section of Legal and Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Nursing, University of Córdoba, Córdoba, Spain
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Kapoor S, Young ND, Yang YT, Batterham P, Gasser RB, Bowles VM, Anstead CA, Perry T. Mitochondrial genomic investigation reveals a clear association between species and genotypes of Lucilia and geographic origin in Australia. Parasit Vectors 2023; 16:279. [PMID: 37573420 PMCID: PMC10423422 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-023-05902-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lucilia cuprina and L. sericata (family Calliphoridae) are globally significant ectoparasites of sheep. Current literature suggests that only one of these blowfly subspecies, L. cuprina dorsalis, is a primary parasite causing myiasis (flystrike) in sheep in Australia. These species and subspecies are difficult to distinguish using morphological features. Hence, being able to accurately identify blowflies is critical for diagnosis and for understanding their relationships with their hosts and environment. METHODS In this study, adult blowflies (5 pools of 17 flies; n = 85) were collected from five locations in different states [New South Wales (NSW), Queensland (QLD), Tasmania (TAS), Victoria (VIC) and Western Australia (WA)] of Australia and their mitochondrial (mt) genomes were assembled. RESULTS Each mt genome assembled was ~ 15 kb in size and encoded 13 protein-coding genes, 2 ribosomal RNAs, 22 transfer RNAs and a control region. The Lucilia species mt genomes were conserved in structure, and the genes retained the same order and direction. The overall nucleotide composition was heavily biased towards As and Ts-77.7% of the whole genomes. Pairwise nucleotide diversity suggested divergence between Lucilia cuprina cuprina, L. c. dorsalis and L. sericata. Comparative analyses of these mt genomes with published data demonstrated that the blowflies collected from sheep farm in TAS clustered within a clade with L. sericata. The flies collected from an urban location in QLD were more closely related to L. sericata and represented the subspecies L. c. cuprina, whereas the flies collected from sheep farms in NSW, VIC and WA represented the subspecies L. c. dorsalis. CONCLUSIONS Phylogenetic analyses of the mt genomes representing Lucilia from the five geographic locations in Australia supported the previously demonstrated paraphyly of L. cuprina with respect to L. sericata and revealed that L. c. cuprina is distinct from L. c. dorsalis and that L. c. cuprina is more closely related to L. sericata than L. c. dorsalis. The mt genomes reported here provide an important molecular resource to develop tools for species- and subspecies-level identification of Lucilia from different geographical regions across Australia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shilpa Kapoor
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Neil D. Young
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Ying Ting Yang
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Philip Batterham
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Robin B. Gasser
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Vernon M. Bowles
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Clare A. Anstead
- Department of Veterinary Biosciences, Faculty of Science, Melbourne Veterinary School, The University of Melbourne, Building 400, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
| | - Trent Perry
- Bio21 Molecular Science and Biotechnology Institute, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010 Australia
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Bambaradeniya TB, Magni PA, Dadour IR. A Summary of Concepts, Procedures and Techniques Used by Forensic Entomologists and Proxies. INSECTS 2023; 14:536. [PMID: 37367352 DOI: 10.3390/insects14060536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2023] [Revised: 06/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023]
Abstract
Forensic entomology is a branch of forensic science that incorporates insects as a part of solving crime. Insect-based evidence recovered at a crime scene can be used to estimate the minimum postmortem interval, determine if a carcass/corpse has been relocated, and contribute to the cause and manner of death. The current review summarises the stepwise usage of forensic entomology methods at a crime scene and in the laboratory, including specimen collection and rearing, identification, xenobiotic detection, documentation, and referencing previous research and casework. It also provides three standards for the collection of insects when attending a crime scene. The Gold standard attributes to a forensic entomologist (FE) who is likely to be well-trained attending a scene. The subsequent standards (Silver and Bronze) have been added because the authors believe that this information is currently missing in the literature. The purpose is so that an attending crime scene agent/proxy with some basic knowledge and some simple tools can recover almost all the insect information required by an FE to make the best estimation of the minimum postmortem interval.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tharindu B Bambaradeniya
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Paola A Magni
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Harry Butler Institute, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
| | - Ian R Dadour
- School of Medical, Molecular & Forensic Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, WA 6150, Australia
- Source Certain, P.O. Box 1570, Wangara, WA 6947, Australia
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Sukontason KL, Sanit S, Limsopatham K, Wannasan A, Somboon P, Sukontason K. Chrysomya pinguis (Walker) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), blow fly of forensic importance: A review of bionomics and forensic entomology appraisal. Acta Trop 2022; 232:106506. [PMID: 35562089 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2022.106506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Role of blow flies as the entomological evidence used in forensic investigations has risen dramatically worldwide. As the diverse habitats of Thailand suitably endowed with biodiversity of insects, blow flies of forensic importance need investigation in their bionomics, which are further applied in forensic investigations. Chrysomya pinguis (Walker, 1858) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) make up one of the most common blow fly species found associated with the human corpses and/or death scenes in several countries of the Asia continent. Given the major species as forensically important, this review is performed by the need for gathering information of C. pinguis from literature search in the future application in the regions where this species exists. This review deals with morphology, current knowledge on bionomics and forensic entomology involvement. Important morphological characteristics of egg, larva, puparium and adult were highlighted with illustration and/or micrographs. Search pertaining to molecular analysis used for fly identification and developmental rate of larvae were included. Furthermore, we outline potential issues and challenges of C. pinguis research that necessitate forensic applications in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kabkaew L Sukontason
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Sangob Sanit
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Kwankamol Limsopatham
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Wannasan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Pradya Somboon
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Kom Sukontason
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
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Gorgeva E, Robertson J, Hoogewerff J. Acoustic monitoring of carrion fly activity on human remains: a preliminary study. AUST J FORENSIC SCI 2022. [DOI: 10.1080/00450618.2022.2104372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Gorgeva
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, University of Canberra, Bruce, New South Wales, Australia
| | - James Robertson
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, University of Canberra, Bruce, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Jurian Hoogewerff
- National Centre for Forensic Studies, University of Canberra, Bruce, New South Wales, Australia
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Chen FH, Shiao SF. Chronobiological Effect on the Reproductive Behavior of Chrysomya megacephala (Diptera: Calliphoridae). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2022; 59:135-146. [PMID: 34718660 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjab173] [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: 07/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The most widely used entomological method of determining the time since death (minimum postmortem interval, mPMI) has been calculating the developmental time of blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) on the deceased body. However, because blow flies are known to be diurnal, nocturnal oviposition has been excluded from standard mPMI calculations. This has been challenged by recent studies demonstrating nocturnal oviposition due to an unknown reason. Therefore, this study investigated the role of chronobiology. We recorded the locomotion amount and pattern of Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) under different chronobiological conditions and examined whether Ch. megacephala can oviposit under nighttime conditions in field and laboratory settings. Subjects were found to have a daily activity pattern under normal darkness conditions (12:12 L:D) and under continuous darkness (DD), but they exhibited no pattern under continuous light (LL). Free-running period was approximately 1,341 min/d (22.35 h/d). In the field, no flies were observed during nighttime. Oviposition occurred in the laboratory setting during daytime with no lights and during nighttime with artificial lights. Free-running subjects oviposited in both active and resting periods, with more eggs laid during active than resting periods. The result of this study indicates it is possible to induce oviposition behavior during evening hours on Ch. megacephala. However, this was only observed in the laboratory setting and could only happen during the flies' subjective day.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Entomology, National Taiwan University, Number 1, Roosevelt Road, Section 4, Taipei 106, Taiwan
| | - Shiuh-Feng Shiao
- Department of Entomology, National Taiwan University, Number 1, Roosevelt Road, Section 4, Taipei 106, Taiwan
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Tembe D, Malatji MP, Mukaratirwa S. Molecular identification and diversity of adult arthropod carrion community collected from pig and sheep carcasses within the same locality during different stages of decomposition in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. PeerJ 2021; 9:e12500. [PMID: 34909274 PMCID: PMC8638566 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.12500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The current study aimed at molecular identification and comparing the diversity of arthropods communities between pig and sheep carcasses during the cold and warm season in KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. Adult arthropods found on and around the carcasses were collected using either fly traps or forceps. Molecular analyses confirmed the identification of twelve arthropod species collected from both sheep and pig carcasses during the cold season. Results showed that 11 of 12 arthropod species were common in both sheep and pig carcasses, with exception to Onthophagus vacca (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) (Linnaeus, 1767) and Atherigona soccata (Diptera: Muscidae) (Rondani, 1871) species which were unique to sheep and pig carcasses respectively. However, during the warm season, the sheep carcass attracted more arthropod (n = 13) species as compared to the pig carcass. The difference in the obtained arthropod was due to the presence of O. vacca which was also unique to the sheep carcass during this season. Furthermore, there was an addition of a beetle species Hycleus lunatus (Coleoptera: Meloidae) (Pallas, 1782), which was collected from both sheep and pig carcasses but unique to the warm season. The pig carcass attracted more dipteran flies during both warm (n = 1,519) and cold season (n = 779) as compared to sheep carcass during the warm (n = 511) and cold season (n = 229). In contrast, coleopterans were more abundant on the sheep carcass during the warm season (n = 391) and cold season (n = 135) as compared to the pig carcass in both warm season (n = 261) and cold season (n = 114). In overall, more flies and beetles were collected on both sheep and pig carcasses during the warm season, and this further highlight that temperature influenced the observed difference in the abundance of collected arthropod between seasons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danisile Tembe
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mokgadi Pulane Malatji
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- Foundational Research and Services, South African National Biodiversity Institute, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Samson Mukaratirwa
- School of Life Sciences, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
- One Health Center for Zoonoses and Tropical Veterinary Medicine, Ross University School of Veterinary Medicine, Basseterre, West Indies
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Gomez-Puerta LA, Cribillero NG, Silva W, Ayala P. Cloacal myiasis by Lucilia spp. (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in a rooster (Gallus gallus domesticus) and two Harris's hawks (Parabuteo unicinctus). Parasitol Int 2021; 83:102363. [PMID: 33901677 DOI: 10.1016/j.parint.2021.102363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
In this study, cloacal myiasis caused by dipterans of Lucilia genus was found in a rooster (Gallus gallus domesticus) and two Harris's hawks (Parabuteo unicinctus) from Peru. Larval dipteran were collected and preserved in ethanol. Morphological analysis indicated two species: Lucilia sericata in the rooster and in one Harris's hawk, and Lucilia cuprina in the other Harris's hawk. Molecular analysis confirmed the diagnosis by amplification of the nucleotide sequences of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 gene and internal transcribed spacer 2 region. The sequences were compared with sequence references from a public sequence database, which showed a 100% matched identity. This study demonstrated for first time cloacal myiasis by L. sericata in a domestic bird from Peru and in Harris's hawk. Also, for the first time, L. cuprina was found in a bird of prey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis A Gomez-Puerta
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru.
| | - Nelly G Cribillero
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos, Lima, Peru
| | - Walter Silva
- Administración Técnicas Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre (ATFFS), Servicio Nacional Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre (SERFOR), Lima, Peru
| | - Pilar Ayala
- Administración Técnicas Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre (ATFFS), Servicio Nacional Forestal y de Fauna Silvestre (SERFOR), Lima, Peru
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Wang Y, Wang Y, Wang M, Xu W, Zhang Y, Wang J. Forensic Entomology in China and Its Challenges. INSECTS 2021; 12:insects12030230. [PMID: 33800343 PMCID: PMC8001280 DOI: 10.3390/insects12030230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2020] [Revised: 02/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Simple Summary Forensic entomologists utilize sarcosaprophagous insect species to estimate the postmortem interval to aid death investigations. In this paper, we present the recent chronology of forensic entomology in China and illustrate how identification, development, and succession data are obtained and applied at the scale of such a large country. To overcome the difficulties and challenges forensic entomology faces in China, a number of countermeasures are provided. Abstract While the earliest record of forensic entomology originated in China, related research did not start in China until the 1990s. In this paper, we review the recent research progress on the species identification, temperature-dependent development, faunal succession, and entomological toxicology of sarcosaprophagous insects as well as common applications of forensic entomology in China. Furthermore, the difficulties and challenges forensic entomologists face in China are analyzed and possible countermeasures are presented.
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Taleb M, Tail G, Açıkgöz HN. Molecular identification of the potentially forensically relevant cluster flies Pollenia rudis (Fabricius) and Pollenia vagabunda (Meigen) (Diptera: Polleniidae) — non-recorded species in Algeria. Forensic Sci Res 2021; 7:69-77. [PMID: 35368910 PMCID: PMC8967396 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2020.1857937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cluster flies are represented by the genus Pollenia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830 of the family Polleniidae Brauer and Bergenstamm, 1889. Their larvae are known to be internal parasites or predators of earthworms. Herein, we report for the first time the occurrence of the cluster flies Pollenia rudis Fabricius, 1794 and Pollenia vagabunda (Meigen, 1826) (Diptera: Polleniidae) on carcasses in Algeria and identify them through DNA barcoding. A region of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene (COI) was amplified and sequenced. Genetic distances were determined. A phylogenetic tree was constructed with the maximum parsimony method using 10 000 bootstrap replicates. A total number of 157 adults of P. rudis were collected together with 325 adults of Pollenia vagabunda. The occurrence of Pollenia on animal carcasses does not seem to be correlated with a particular stage of decomposition. All the sequences were correctly identified using the BLASTn tool from the GenBank database and the BOLD identification engine. Intra- and interspecific sequence divergence values were less than 1% and greater than 3%, respectively. COI barcodes obtained from this study were robust enough to identify and distinguish unambiguously between P. rudis and P. vagabunda. In the tree-based analysis, the cluster flies were all assigned to their respective species separately from each other confirming the morphological identification. These results provide DNA barcodes that contribute to the growth of reference databases and allow fast and accurate identification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Taleb
- Department of Population and Organism Biology, University of Blida 1, Blida, Algeria
| | - Ghania Tail
- Department of Population and Organism Biology, University of Blida 1, Blida, Algeria
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Oliveira PV, de Almeida FAN, Lugon MD, Britto KB, Oliveira-Costa J, Santos AR, Paneto GG. Using high-resolution melting to identify Calliphoridae (blowflies) species from Brazil. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9680. [PMID: 33335803 PMCID: PMC7713596 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9680] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Forensic entomology is the study of insects and other arthropods used in the solution of crimes. Most of entomological evidences strongly depend on accurate species identification. Therefore, new methods are being developed due to difficulties in morphological identification, including molecular methods such as High-Resolution Melting. In this study, we reported a new HRM primer set to identify forensically important Calliphoridae (blowflies) from Brazil. For such purpose, Calliphoridae species of forensic importance in Brazil were listed and confirmed by specialists. Mitochondrial COI sequences of those species were downloaded from databases and aligned, and polymorphic variations were selected for distinction between species. Based on it, HRM primers were designed. Forty-three fly samples representing six species were tested in the HRM assay. All samples had the COI gene sequenced to validate the result. Identifying and differentiating the six species proposed using a combination of two amplicons was possible. The protocol was effective even for old insect specimens, collected and preserved dried for more than ten years, unlike the DNA sequencing technique that failed for those samples. The HRM technique proved to be an alternative tool to DNA sequencing, with advantage of amplifying degraded samples and being fast and cheaper than the sequencing technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pablo Viana Oliveira
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | | | - Magda Delorence Lugon
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Karolinni Bianchi Britto
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Janyra Oliveira-Costa
- Polícia Civil do Estado do Rio de Janeiro, Instituto Médico Legal Afrânio Peixoto, Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Alexandre Rosa Santos
- Centro de Ciências Agrárias e Engenharias, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Alegre, Espírito Santo, Brazil
| | - Greiciane Gaburro Paneto
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biotecnologia, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Vitória, Espírito Santo, Brazil
- Centro de Ciências Exatas, Naturais e da Saúde, Universidade Federal do Espírito Santo, Alegre, Espírito Santo, Brazil
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13
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Recinos-Aguilar YM, García-García MD, Malo EA, Cruz-López L, Rojas JC. The Colonization of Necrophagous Larvae Accelerates the Decomposition of Chicken Carcass and the Emission of Volatile Attractants for Blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae). JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2019; 56:1590-1597. [PMID: 31265073 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjz104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The decomposition of a living being involves a series of changes produced by a number of interacting abiotic and biotic factors. In this study, we analyzed the effect of the colonization of blowflies on the decomposition of chicken carcasses and on the emission of sulfur compounds. The loss of the mass of carcasses and the release rate of sulfur compounds were compared for 30 d in chicken carcasses with and without blowflies in field conditions. The tissue degradation was slower in the carcasses without insects compared to those colonized by blowflies. The decomposition stages of fresh, bloated, active decay, and advanced decay were observed in the carcasses without flies; while the decomposition stages of fresh, active decay, advanced decay, and dry remains were identified in carcasses with flies. Two sulfur compounds, dimethyl disulfide and dimethyl trisulfide, were present during the entire decomposition process. The emission of these compounds is not directly associated with the presence of the blowflies' immature stages during the whole decomposition process. However, in cadavers with insects, the highest emission of both compounds occurred in day 2, while in cadavers without insects, the peak of emission was observed in day 4. In addition, the presence of the larval stages I and II of Lucilia eximia (Wiedemann, 1819) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart, 1842) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius, 1794) (Diptera: Calliphoridae), and Cochliomyia macellaria Fabricius, 1775 (Diptera: Calliphoridae) matched with the peak of emission of both compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yensy María Recinos-Aguilar
- Grupo de Ecología de Artrópodos y Manejo de Plagas, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Tapachula, Carretera Antiguo Aeropuerto, CP, Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico
| | - Maria Dolores García-García
- Facultad de Biología, Departamento de Zoología y Antropología Física, Campus Universitario de Espinardo, Murcia, España
| | - Edi A Malo
- Grupo de Ecología de Artrópodos y Manejo de Plagas, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Tapachula, Carretera Antiguo Aeropuerto, CP, Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico
| | - Leopoldo Cruz-López
- Grupo de Ecología de Artrópodos y Manejo de Plagas, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Tapachula, Carretera Antiguo Aeropuerto, CP, Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico
| | - Julio C Rojas
- Grupo de Ecología de Artrópodos y Manejo de Plagas, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Tapachula, Carretera Antiguo Aeropuerto, CP, Tapachula, Chiapas, Mexico
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14
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Gemmellaro MD, Hamilton GC, Ware JL. Review of Molecular Identification Techniques for Forensically Important Diptera. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2019; 56:887-902. [PMID: 31173634 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjz040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The medico-legal section of forensic entomology focuses on the analysis of insects associated with a corpse. Such insects are identified, and their life history characteristics are evaluated to provide information related to the corpse, such as postmortem interval and time of colonization. Forensically important insects are commonly identified using dichotomous keys, which rely on morphological characteristics. Morphological identifications can pose a challenge as local keys are not always available and can be difficult to use, especially when identifying juvenile stages. If a specimen is damaged, certain keys cannot be used for identification. In contrast, molecular identification can be a better instrument to identify forensically important insects, regardless of life stage or specimen completeness. Despite more than 20 yr since the first use of molecular data for the identification of forensic insects, there is little overlap in gene selection or phylogenetic methodology among studies, and this inconsistency reduces efficiency. Several methods such as genetic distance, reciprocal monophyly, or character-based methods have been implemented in forensic identification studies. It can be difficult to compare the results of studies that employ these different methods. Here we present a comprehensive review of the published results for the molecular identification of Diptera of forensic interest, with an emphasis on evaluating variation among studies in gene selection and phylogenetic methodology.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Jessica L Ware
- Department of Entomology, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ
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15
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Chimeno C, Morinière J, Podhorna J, Hardulak L, Hausmann A, Reckel F, Grunwald JE, Penning R, Haszprunar G. DNA Barcoding in Forensic Entomology - Establishing a DNA Reference Library of Potentially Forensic Relevant Arthropod Species. J Forensic Sci 2018; 64:593-601. [PMID: 29995972 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.13869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2018] [Revised: 06/11/2018] [Accepted: 06/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Throughout the years, DNA barcoding has gained in importance in forensic entomology as it leads to fast and reliable species determination. High-quality results, however, can only be achieved with a comprehensive DNA barcode reference database at hand. In collaboration with the Bavarian State Criminal Police Office, we have initiated at the Bavarian State Collection of Zoology the establishment of a reference library containing arthropods of potential forensic relevance to be used for DNA barcoding applications. CO1-5P' DNA barcode sequences of hundreds of arthropods were obtained via DNA extraction, PCR and Sanger Sequencing, leading to the establishment of a database containing 502 high-quality sequences which provide coverage for 88 arthropod species. Furthermore, we demonstrate an application example of this library using it as a backbone to a high throughput sequencing analysis of arthropod bulk samples collected from human corpses, which enabled the identification of 31 different arthropod Barcode Index Numbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Chimeno
- Zoologische Staatssammlung München (SNSB-ZSM), Münchhausenstrasse 21, 81247, München, Germany
| | - Jérôme Morinière
- Zoologische Staatssammlung München (SNSB-ZSM), Münchhausenstrasse 21, 81247, München, Germany
| | - Jana Podhorna
- Mendel University in Brno (MEDELU), Zemedelska 1, Brno, 613 00, Czech Republic
| | - Laura Hardulak
- Zoologische Staatssammlung München (SNSB-ZSM), Münchhausenstrasse 21, 81247, München, Germany
| | - Axel Hausmann
- Zoologische Staatssammlung München (SNSB-ZSM), Münchhausenstrasse 21, 81247, München, Germany
| | - Frank Reckel
- Abteilung II, Bayerisches Landeskriminalamt, Maillingerstraße 15, 80636, München, Germany
| | - Jan E Grunwald
- Abteilung II, Bayerisches Landeskriminalamt, Maillingerstraße 15, 80636, München, Germany
| | - Randolph Penning
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität, München, Germany
| | - Gerhard Haszprunar
- Zoologische Staatssammlung München (SNSB-ZSM), Münchhausenstrasse 21, 81247, München, Germany
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16
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Bharti M, Singh B. DNA-Based Identification of Forensically Important Blow Flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) From India. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2017; 54:1151-1156. [PMID: 28419283 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjx084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Correct species identification is the first and the most important criteria in entomological evidence-based postmortem interval (PMI) estimation. Although morphological keys are available for species identification of adult blow flies, keys for immature stages are either lacking or are incomplete. In this study, cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) reference data were developed from nine species (belonging to three subfamilies, namely, Calliphorinae, Luciliinae, and Chrysomyinae) of blow flies from India. Seven of the nine species included in this study were found suitable for DNA-based identification using COI gene, because they showed nonoverlapping intra- (0.0-0.3%) and inter-(1.96-18.14%) specific diversity, and formed well-supported monophyletic clade in phylogenetic analysis. The remaining two species (i.e., Chrysomya megacephala (Fabricius) and Chrysomya chani Kurahashi) cannot be distinguished reliably using our database because they had a very low interspecific diversity (0.11%), and Ch. megacephala was paraphyletic with respect to Ch. chani in the phylogenetic analysis. We conclude that the COI gene is a useful marker for DNA-based identification of blow flies from India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meenakshi Bharti
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Sciences, Punjabi University, Patiala, Punjab 147002, India
| | - Baneshwar Singh
- Department of Forensic Science, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA 23284
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17
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Meng F, Ren L, Wang Z, Deng J, Guo Y, Chen C, Finkelbergs D, Cai J. Identification of Forensically Important Blow Flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in China Based on COI. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2017; 54:1193-1200. [PMID: 28535279 DOI: 10.1093/jme/tjx105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
Blow flies are among the most important insects in forensic entomology casework. Identification of blow fly species can be a time consuming and difficult task, especially at their early development stages. Present DNA-based technologies provide a promising identification method for these forensically important calliphorids. The cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) sequence has been applied as a suitable DNA marker in calliphorid identification for many years; however, limitation exists in using short sequence to determine genetically close species. In this study, COI long sequences were utilized in species-level identification. Seventy-two specimens were collected from 27 locations across 22 Chinese provinces, and unambiguously determined as 16 species under seven genera of Calliphoridae. Analysis of long mitochondrial COI sequence (1,021-1,382 bp) data from forensically relevant blow flies collected in the inland region of China provided a reliable marker for accurate identification. Our data provide genetic diversity and reference for global forensic-related blow fly species identification, and conductive meaning on future utilization of Chinese calliphorids used in forensic entomological practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fanming Meng
- Department of Histology and Embryology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410078, Hunan, China
| | - Lipin Ren
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Ziyue Wang
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, 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 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Institute of Apicultural Research, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Dmitrijs Finkelbergs
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
| | - Jifeng Cai
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha 410013, Hunan, China
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18
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Hore G, Maity A, Naskar A, Ansar W, Ghosh S, Saha GK, Banerjee D. Scanning electron microscopic studies on antenna of Hemipyrellia ligurriens (Wiedemann, 1830) (Diptera: Calliphoridae)-A blow fly species of forensic importance. Acta Trop 2017; 172:20-28. [PMID: 28427964 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2017.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 04/14/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are one of the foremost organisms amongst forensic insects to colonize corpses shortly after death, thus are of immense importance in the domain of forensic entomology. The blow fly Hemipyrellia ligurriens (Wiedemann, 1830) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) is considered as a forensically important fly species globally and is also known for its medical and veterinary importance. In the present study, we report for the first time scanning electron microscopic studies on the morphology of sensilla of antenna of adult male and female of H. ligurriens is with profound importance in better understanding of the insect morphology from forensic entomological perspective, and also could aid in proper identification of the species from other calliphorid flies. The structural peculiarities observed in the (i) antenna of H. ligurriens with three segments- scape, pedicel and flagellum with dorso-laterally placed arista (ii) densely covered microtrichia and most abundant trichoid sensilla identified on the antenna (iii) observation of only one type of sensilla, chaetic sensilla (ChI) on the scape (iv) two types of chaetic sensilla (ChI and ChII) and styloconic sensilla on the pedicel (v) the flagellum with three types of sensilla- trichoid, basiconic and coeloconic sensilla (vi) Basiconic sensilla with multiporous surfaces with characteristic olfactory function. Moderate sexual dimorphism in the width of the flagellum, the females with wider flagella than the males, bear significance to the fact that they bear more multi-porous sensilla than the males, thus suffice their need to detect oviposition sites. Significant difference was observed in the length and width of coeloconic sensilla between the two sexes, the females showed bigger coeloconic sensilla, suggesting their function in oviposition site detection and successful colonization in corpses.
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19
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Giffen JE, Rosati JY, Longo CM, Musah RA. Species Identification of Necrophagous Insect Eggs Based on Amino Acid Profile Differences Revealed by Direct Analysis in Real Time-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry. Anal Chem 2017; 89:7719-7726. [PMID: 28586212 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.7b01708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The colonization of decomposing remains by necrophagous insects such as blow flies is of forensic importance because the progression through the various stages of insect development can be correlated to time of death. The ability to infer this information hinges on accurate determination of the fly species that are associated with the entomological evidence collected. This evidence can include eggs, larvae, pupae, and puparial casings. Determination of the egg's identity is particularly challenging because the eggs of multiple species are morphologically very similar. We report here that the species identity of fly eggs can be determined from their chemical fingerprint signatures acquired by direct analysis in real time high-resolution mass spectrometry (DART-HRMS). Thus, freshly laid eggs were collected and readily distinguished from multiple necrophagous fly species in the Manhattan area of New York City. These species included representatives from the blow fly family (Calliphoridae), specifically Calliphora vicina, Lucilia sericata, L. coeruleiviridis, and Phormia regina species as well as the Phoridae and Sarcophagidae families. Multivariate statistical analysis of their observed DART-HRMS spectra revealed intraspecies similarities and interspecies differences that were the basis of species differentiation. The chemical basis of discrimination was differences in amino acid profiles. This represents the first chemically based fly egg identification approach with applications to forensic entomology. The rapidity of the method makes feasible the generation of a fly egg chemical profile database against which the DART-HRMS spectra of unknown eggs can be screened to rapidly assess species identity without needing to rear the eggs to adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justine E Giffen
- Department of Chemistry, University at Albany, State University of New York , 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, New York 12222, United States
| | - Jennifer Y Rosati
- John Jay College of Criminal Justice , 524 West 59th Street, New York, New York 10019, United States
| | - Cameron M Longo
- Department of Chemistry, University at Albany, State University of New York , 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, New York 12222, United States
| | - Rabi A Musah
- Department of Chemistry, University at Albany, State University of New York , 1400 Washington Avenue, Albany, New York 12222, United States
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20
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Jordan HR, Tomberlin JK. Abiotic and Biotic Factors Regulating Inter-Kingdom Engagement between Insects and Microbe Activity on Vertebrate Remains. INSECTS 2017; 8:E54. [PMID: 28538664 PMCID: PMC5492068 DOI: 10.3390/insects8020054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2017] [Revised: 05/10/2017] [Accepted: 05/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Abstract: A number of abiotic and biotic factors are known to regulate arthropod attraction, colonization, and utilization of decomposing vertebrate remains. Such information is critical when assessing arthropod evidence associated with said remains in terms of forensic relevance. Interactions are not limited to just between the resource and arthropods. There is another biotic factor that has been historically overlooked; however, with the advent of high-throughput sequencing, and other molecular techniques, the curtain has been pulled back to reveal a microscopic world that is playing a major role with regards to carrion decomposition patterns in association with arthropods. The objective of this publication is to review many of these factors and draw attention to their impact on microbial, specifically bacteria, activity associated with these remains as it is our contention that microbes serve as a primary mechanism regulating associated arthropod behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heather R Jordan
- Department of Biological Sciences, Mississippi State University, Starkville, MS 39705, USA.
| | - Jeffery K Tomberlin
- Department of Entomology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA.
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21
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Anstead CA, Perry T, Richards S, Korhonen PK, Young ND, Bowles VM, Batterham P, Gasser RB. The Battle Against Flystrike - Past Research and New Prospects Through Genomics. ADVANCES IN PARASITOLOGY 2017; 98:227-281. [PMID: 28942770 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apar.2017.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Flystrike, or cutaneous myiasis, is caused by blow fly larvae of the genus Lucilia. This disease is a major problem in countries with large sheep populations. In Australia, Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann, 1830) is the principal fly involved in flystrike. While much research has been conducted on L. cuprina, including physical, chemical, immunological, genetic and biological investigations, the molecular biology of this fly is still poorly understood. The recent sequencing, assembly and annotation of the draft genome and analyses of selected transcriptomes of L. cuprina have given a first global glimpse of its molecular biology and insights into host-fly interactions, insecticide resistance genes and intervention targets. The present article introduces L. cuprina, flystrike and associated issues, details past control efforts and research foci, reviews salient aspects of the L. cuprina genome project and discusses how the new genomic and transcriptomic resources for this fly might accelerate fundamental molecular research of L. cuprina towards developing new methods for the treatment and control of flystrike.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Trent Perry
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | | | | | - Neil D Young
- The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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22
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Sun X, Tao J, Ren L, Shi J, Luo Y. Identification of Sirex noctilio (Hymenoptera: Siricidae) Using a Species-Specific Cytochrome C Oxidase Subunit I PCR Assay. JOURNAL OF ECONOMIC ENTOMOLOGY 2016; 109:1424-1430. [PMID: 27117170 DOI: 10.1093/jee/tow060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Abstract
Sirex noctilio F. (Hymenoptera: Siricidae: Siricinae), a new invasive species in China, is a significant international forestry quarantine pest. Transportation of Sirex in logs, and related wood packing materials, has led to environmental damage and substantial economic loss in many countries around the world. Traditional morphological characteristics are not reliable for identification of the Siricidae family, particularly the larvae. Furthermore, specimens are frequently not in a suitable condition to permit morphological identification. The majority of damage is caused by the larval stage, which excavates galleries that can penetrate to the center of tree boles. Thus, development of a rapid, accurate, and effective molecular identification technique for S. noctilio , which does not require expert morphological knowledge, is necessary. Here, we describe a molecular identification tool based on the mitochondrial DNA gene, cytochrome C oxidase subunit I (COI). We designed a species-specific COI (SS-COI) PCR assay, which allows direct identification of S. noctilio , regardless of developmental stage. Six woodwasp species commonly found in China, Sirex noctilio , Sirex nitobei , Sirex sp., Tremex fuscicornis Fabr., Tremex apicalis Matsumura, and Xeris spectrum , were included in our analyses . Moreover, specimens of S. noctilio from 16 different areas were analyzed. The results demonstrate that our molecular assay is effective and accurate, regardless of developmental stage or type of specimen, consistent with use for quarantine purposes, to prevent the harmful consequences of S. noctilio spread.
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23
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Zajac BK, Sontigun N, Wannasan A, Verhoff MA, Sukontason K, Amendt J, Zehner R. Application of DNA barcoding for identifying forensically relevant Diptera from northern Thailand. Parasitol Res 2016; 115:2307-20. [PMID: 26965427 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-016-4977-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
In recent decades, forensic entomology has become a useful tool in criminal investigations all over the world. Species-specific identification of flies plays an important role in this field and is obligatory for accurate calculation of the post-mortem interval. However, not all important colonizers of a corpse can be identified by common morphological keys. Due to similar morphology and the lack of keys for some taxa, especially for immature stages, DNA barcoding has become more popular during the last recent years. This development is particularly important for countries like Thailand, in which forensic entomology is a newly developing research area and which faces several challenges such as a high biodiversity of fly species. The most commonly used barcoding region in forensic entomology, the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (coI) gene, as well as a 1000-bp-long region of the 28S nuclear rRNA gene, was used to analyze and establish the molecular barcodes of 13 different species of flies of forensic relevance in northern Thailand.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Karolina Zajac
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Forensic Biology/Entomology, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany.
| | - Narin Sontigun
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Anchalee Wannasan
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Marcel A Verhoff
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Forensic Biology/Entomology, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Kabkaew Sukontason
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, 50200, Thailand
| | - Jens Amendt
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Forensic Biology/Entomology, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Richard Zehner
- Institute of Legal Medicine, Forensic Biology/Entomology, Kennedyallee 104, 60596, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
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24
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Williams KA, Lamb J, Villet MH. Phylogenetic radiation of the greenbottle flies (Diptera, Calliphoridae, Luciliinae). Zookeys 2016; 568:59-86. [PMID: 27103874 PMCID: PMC4829670 DOI: 10.3897/zookeys.568.6696] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The subfamily Luciliinae is diverse and geographically widespread. Its four currently recognised genera (Dyscritomyia Grimshaw, 1901, Hemipyrellia Townsend, 1918, Hypopygiopsis Townsend 1916 and Lucilia Robineau-Desvoidy, 1830) contain species that range from saprophages to obligate parasites, but their pattern of phylogenetic diversification is unclear. The 28S rRNA, COI and Period genes of 14 species of Lucilia and Hemipyrellia were partially sequenced and analysed together with sequences of 11 further species from public databases. The molecular data confirmed molecular paraphyly in three species-pairs in Lucilia that hamper barcode identifications of those six species. Lucilia sericata and Lucilia cuprina were confirmed as mutual sister species. The placements of Dyscritomyia and Hypopygiopsis were ambiguous, since both made Lucilia paraphyletic in some analyses. Recognising Hemipyrellia as a genus consistently left Lucilia s.l. paraphyletic, and the occasionally-recognised (sub)genus Phaenicia was consistently paraphyletic, so these taxa should be synonymised with Lucilia to maintain monophyly. Analysis of a matrix of 14 morphological characters scored for adults of all genera and for most of the species included in the molecular analysis confirmed several of these findings. The different degrees of parasitism were phylogenetically clustered within this genus but did not form a graded series of evolutionary stages, and there was no particular relationship between feeding habits and biogeography. Because of the ubiquity of hybridization, introgression and incomplete lineage sorting in blow flies, we recommend that using a combination of mitochondrial and nuclear markers should be a procedural standard for medico-criminal forensic identifications of insects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstin A. Williams
- Entomology Department, Durban Natural Science Museum, Durban, South Africa
- Southern African Forensic Entomology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
| | - Jennifer Lamb
- School of Life Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Martin H. Villet
- Southern African Forensic Entomology Research Laboratory, Department of Zoology and Entomology, Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South Africa
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25
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Mello ICT, Ribeiro ASD, Dias VHG, Silva R, Sabino BD, Garrido RG, Seldin L, de Moura Neto RS. A segment of rbcL gene as a potential tool for forensic discrimination of Cannabis sativa seized at Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Int J Legal Med 2015; 130:353-6. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-015-1170-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 02/27/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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26
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Grella MD, Savino AG, Paulo DF, Mendes FM, Azeredo-Espin AML, Queiroz MMC, Thyssen PJ, Linhares AX. Phenotypic polymorphism of Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) may lead to species misidentification. Acta Trop 2015; 141:60-72. [PMID: 25265317 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2014.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2014] [Revised: 09/17/2014] [Accepted: 09/19/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Species identification is an essential step in the progress and completion of work in several areas of biological knowledge, but it is not a simple process. Due to the close phylogenetic relationship of certain species, morphological characters are not always sufficiently distinguishable. As a result, it is necessary to combine several methods of analysis that contribute to a distinct categorization of taxa. This study aimed to raise diagnostic characters, both morphological and molecular, for the correct identification of species of the genus Chrysomya (Diptera: Calliphoridae) recorded in the New World, which has continuously generated discussion about its taxonomic position over the last century. A clear example of this situation was the first record of Chrysomya rufifacies in Brazilian territory in 2012. However, the morphological polymorphism and genetic variability of Chrysomya albiceps studied here show that both species (C. rufifacies and C. albiceps) share very similar character states, leading to misidentification and subsequent registration error of species present in our territory. This conclusion is demonstrated by the authors, based on a review of the material deposited in major scientific collections in Brazil and subsequent molecular and phylogenetic analysis of these samples. Additionally, we have proposed a new taxonomic key to separate the species of Chrysomya found on the American continent, taking into account a larger number of characters beyond those available in current literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maicon D Grella
- Department of Animal Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Rua Monteiro Lobato, 255, PO Box 6109, CEP 13083-862 Campinas, SP, Brazil.
| | - André G Savino
- Department of Animal Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Rua Monteiro Lobato, 255, PO Box 6109, CEP 13083-862 Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Daniel F Paulo
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Biology/Center of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Felipe M Mendes
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Biology/Center of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | - Ana M L Azeredo-Espin
- Department of Genetics and Evolution, Institute of Biology/Center of Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, SP, Brazil
| | | | - Patricia J Thyssen
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Pelotas (UFPel), Pelotas, RS, Brazil
| | - Arício X Linhares
- Department of Animal Biology, Institute of Biology, State University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Rua Monteiro Lobato, 255, PO Box 6109, CEP 13083-862 Campinas, SP, Brazil
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Dias VHG, Ribeiro ASD, Mello ICT, Silva R, Sabino BD, Garrido RG, Seldin L, Moura-Neto RS. Genetic identification of Cannabis sativa using chloroplast trnL-F gene. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2014; 14:201-2. [PMID: 25450794 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2014.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Revised: 10/02/2014] [Accepted: 10/06/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- V H G Dias
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular Forense, Instituto de Biologia, UFRJ, Brazil
| | - A S D Ribeiro
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular Forense, Instituto de Biologia, UFRJ, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Metrologia, Qualidade e Tecnologia, INMETRO, Brazil
| | - I C T Mello
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular Forense, Instituto de Biologia, UFRJ, Brazil
| | - R Silva
- Laboratório de Metabolismo Macromolecular Firmino Torres de Castro, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, UFRJ, UFRJ, Brazil
| | - B D Sabino
- Instituto de Criminalística Carlos Éboli, DGPTC, PCERJ, Brazil
| | - R G Garrido
- Instituto de Pesquisas e Perícias em Genética Forense, DGPTC, PCERJ, Brazil; Mestrado em Desenvolvimento Local, UNISUAM, Brazil
| | - L Seldin
- Instituto de Microbiologia Paulo de Góes, UFRJ, Brazil
| | - R S Moura-Neto
- Laboratório de Biologia Molecular Forense, Instituto de Biologia, UFRJ, Brazil; Instituto Nacional de Metrologia, Qualidade e Tecnologia, INMETRO, Brazil.
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Yan J, Liao H, Xie K, Cai J. The complete mitochondria genome of Chrysomya pinguis (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Mitochondrial DNA A DNA Mapp Seq Anal 2014; 27:3852-3854. [DOI: 10.3109/19401736.2014.958675] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Jie Yan
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Huidan Liao
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Kai Xie
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
| | - Jifeng Cai
- Department of Forensic Science, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Central South University, Changsha, Hunan, P.R. China
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Using the developmental gene bicoid to identify species of forensically important blowflies (Diptera: calliphoridae). BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2013; 2013:538051. [PMID: 23586044 PMCID: PMC3613069 DOI: 10.1155/2013/538051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2012] [Revised: 01/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/16/2013] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
Identifying species of insects used to estimate postmortem interval (PMI) is a major subject in forensic entomology. Because forensic insect specimens are morphologically uniform and are obtained at various developmental stages, DNA markers are greatly needed. To develop new autosomal DNA markers to identify species, partial genomic sequences of the bicoid (bcd) genes, containing the homeobox and its flanking sequences, from 12 blowfly species (Aldrichina grahami, Calliphora vicina, Calliphora lata, Triceratopyga calliphoroides, Chrysomya megacephala, Chrysomya pinguis, Phormia regina, Lucilia ampullacea, Lucilia caesar, Lucilia illustris, Hemipyrellia ligurriens and Lucilia sericata; Calliphoridae: Diptera) were determined and analyzed. This study first sequenced the ten blowfly species other than C. vicina and L. sericata. Based on the bcd sequences of these 12 blowfly species, a phylogenetic tree was constructed that discriminates the subfamilies of Calliphoridae (Luciliinae, Chrysomyinae, and Calliphorinae) and most blowfly species. Even partial genomic sequences of about 500 bp can distinguish most blowfly species. The short intron 2 and coding sequences downstream of the bcd homeobox in exon 3 could be utilized to develop DNA markers for forensic applications. These gene sequences are important in the evolution of insect developmental biology and are potentially useful for identifying insect species in forensic science.
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Park SH, Shin SE. Molecular Species Identification of Forensically Important Flies in Korea. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.7580/kjlm.2013.37.4.177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Seong Hwan Park
- Department of Legal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Sang Eon Shin
- Department of Legal Medicine, Korea University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
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31
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Nelson LA, Lambkin CL, Batterham P, Wallman JF, Dowton M, Whiting MF, Yeates DK, Cameron SL. Beyond barcoding: a mitochondrial genomics approach to molecular phylogenetics and diagnostics of blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Gene 2012; 511:131-42. [PMID: 23043935 DOI: 10.1016/j.gene.2012.09.103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2012] [Revised: 09/21/2012] [Accepted: 09/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Members of the Calliphoridae (blowflies) are significant for medical and veterinary management, due to the ability of some species to consume living flesh as larvae, and for forensic investigations due to the ability of others to develop in corpses. Due to the difficulty of accurately identifying larval blowflies to species there is a need for DNA-based diagnostics for this family, however the widely used DNA-barcoding marker, cox1, has been shown to fail for several groups within this family. Additionally, many phylogenetic relationships within the Calliphoridae are still unresolved, particularly deeper level relationships. Sequencing whole mt genomes has been demonstrated both as an effective method for identifying the most informative diagnostic markers and for resolving phylogenetic relationships. Twenty-seven complete, or nearly so, mt genomes were sequenced representing 13 species, seven genera and four calliphorid subfamilies and a member of the related family Tachinidae. PCR and sequencing primers developed for sequencing one calliphorid species could be reused to sequence related species within the same superfamily with success rates ranging from 61% to 100%, demonstrating the speed and efficiency with which an mt genome dataset can be assembled. Comparison of molecular divergences for each of the 13 protein-coding genes and 2 ribosomal RNA genes, at a range of taxonomic scales identified novel targets for developing as diagnostic markers which were 117-200% more variable than the markers which have been used previously in calliphorids. Phylogenetic analysis of whole mt genome sequences resulted in much stronger support for family and subfamily-level relationships. The Calliphoridae are polyphyletic, with the Polleninae more closely related to the Tachinidae, and the Sarcophagidae are the sister group of the remaining calliphorids. Within the Calliphoridae, there was strong support for the monophyly of the Chrysomyinae and Luciliinae and for the sister-grouping of Luciliinae with Calliphorinae. Relationships within Chrysomya were not well resolved. Whole mt genome data, supported the previously demonstrated paraphyly of Lucilia cuprina with respect to L. sericata and allowed us to conclude that it is due to hybrid introgression prior to the last common ancestor of modern sericata populations, rather than due to recent hybridisation, nuclear pseudogenes or incomplete lineage sorting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leigh A Nelson
- Australian National Insect Collection, CSIRO Ecosystem Sciences, Canberra, ACT, 2601, Australia
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Joseph I, Mathew DG, Sathyan P, Vargheese G. The use of insects in forensic investigations: An overview on the scope of forensic entomology. J Forensic Dent Sci 2012; 3:89-91. [PMID: 22408328 PMCID: PMC3296382 DOI: 10.4103/0975-1475.92154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Forensic entomology is the study of insects/arthropods in criminal investigation. Right from the early stages insects are attracted to the decomposing body and may lay eggs in it. By studying the insect population and the developing larval stages, forensic scientists can estimate the postmortem index, any change in position of the corpse as well as the cause of death. Forensic odontologists are called upon more frequently to collaborate in criminal investigations and hence should be aware of the possibilities that forensic entomology have to offer and use it as an adjunct to the conventional means of forensic investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Isaac Joseph
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, Sree Mookambika Institute of Dental Sciences, Kulashekhram, Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu, India
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Sonet G, Jordaens K, Braet Y, Desmyter S. Why is the molecular identification of the forensically important blowfly species Lucilia caesar and L. illustris (family Calliphoridae) so problematic? Forensic Sci Int 2012; 223:153-9. [PMID: 22964163 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2012.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2012] [Accepted: 08/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Species of the fly genus Lucilia are commonly used in forensic investigations to estimate the postmortem interval (PMI). Two close-related species Lucilia caesar and L. illustris are difficult to identify. Previous studies showed that the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) marker could be used to identify many Lucilia species. However, mixed results were obtained for L. caesar and L. illustris due to some European specimens showing identical haplotypes. Here, we investigated 58 new European male specimens of L. illustris and L. caesar whose morphological identifications were checked and for which COI fragments were sequenced. In addition, two other mitochondrial (cytochrome c oxidase subunit II and 16S) and two nuclear (internal transcribed spacer 2 and 28S ribosomal RNA) markers were obtained for a subset of these samples. For each marker, genetic divergence within each species was in the same range as between species, confirming the close relationship between both species. Moreover, for each of the gene fragments, both species shared at least one haplotype/genotype. Hence, none of the molecular markers tested could be used, alone or in combination, to discriminate between L. illustris and L. caesar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gontran Sonet
- Joint Experimental Molecular Unit, Royal Museum for Central Africa, Leuvensesteenweg 13, 3080 Tervuren, Belgium.
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Samarakoon U, Skoda SR, Baxendale FP, Foster JE. A molecular key for the identification of blow flies in southeastern Nebraska. J Forensic Sci 2012; 58:173-8. [PMID: 22563809 DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2012.02182.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Immature blow flies (Calliphoridae) are typically the first colonizers of cadavers. Identification of the early instars using traditional, morphology-based keys is difficult because of their small size, similarity, and simplicity in external morphology. Information derived from molecular genetic data would augment the accurate identification of immature flies. Nine species of blow flies commonly found in southeastern Nebraska were used to examine the utility of molecular-based keys. Polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphisms (PCR-RFLP) were investigated with 10 common, inexpensive, restriction enzymes from an amplicon of approximately 1500 bp spanning the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I gene. A simple molecular taxonomic key, comprising RFLP from the restriction enzymes HinfI and DraI, enabled the differentiation of all species used. Further development of PCR-RFLP, including more extensive and intensive examination of blow flies, would benefit forensic laboratories in the accurate identification of evidence consisting of immature blow flies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Upeka Samarakoon
- Department of Entomology, 103 Entomology Hall, University of Nebraska - Lincoln, Lincoln, NE 68583-0816, USA
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35
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DeBry RW, Timm A, Wong ES, Stamper T, Cookman C, Dahlem GA. DNA-based identification of forensically important Lucilia (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in the continental United States. J Forensic Sci 2012; 58:73-8. [PMID: 22563786 DOI: 10.1111/j.1556-4029.2012.02176.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Correct species identification is critical when dipteran larvae are used for inference of the postmortem interval. To facilitate DNA-based identification of forensically important flies of the genus Lucilia in the continental United States, we develop a vouchered reference collection and DNA sequence database. A total of 122 specimens were collected for nine of the 10 species of Lucilia reported to occur in the continental United States. Using the polymerase chain reaction and DNA sequencing, data were obtained for an 1100-bp region of the mitochondrial gene encoding cytochrome oxidase I (COI). We consider a species suitable for DNA-based identification if it is exclusively monophyletic in >95% of bootstrap pseudoreplicate phylogenetic analyses. Seven of the nine species meet that criterion. Two species (Lucilia coeruleiviridis and Lucilia mexicana) share COI sequence and cannot be distinguished using our reference database. We conclude that DNA-based identification is likely to be successful for the other seven species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronald W DeBry
- Department of Biological Sciences, Box 210006, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45221-0006, USA.
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36
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Yang ST, Shiao SF. Oviposition preferences of two forensically important blow fly species, Chrysomya megacephala and C. rufifacies (Diptera: Calliphoridae), and implications for postmortem interval estimation. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2012; 49:424-435. [PMID: 22493863 DOI: 10.1603/me11133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Necrophagous blow fly species (Diptera: Calliphoridae) are the most important agents for estimating the postmortem interval (PMI) in forensic entomology. Nevertheless, the oviposition preferences of blow flies may cause a bias of PMI estimations because of a delay or acceleration of egg laying. Chrysomya megacephala (F.) and C. rufifacies (Macquart) are two predominant necrophagous blow fly species in Taiwan. Their larvae undergo rather intense competition, and the latter one can prey on the former under natural conditions. To understand the oviposition preferences of these two species, a dual-choice device was used to test the choice of oviposition sites by females. Results showed when pork liver with and without larvae of C. rufifacies was provided, C. megacephala preferred to lay eggs on the liver without larvae. However, C. megacephala showed no preference when pork liver with and without conspecific larvae or larvae of Hemipyrellia ligurriens (Wiedemann) was provided. These results indicate that females of C. megacephala try to avoid laying eggs around larvae of facultatively predaceous species of C. rufifacies. However, C. rufifacies showed significant oviposition preference for pork liver with larvae of C. megacephala or conspecific ones when compared with pork liver with no larvae. These results probably imply that conspecific larvae or larvae of C. megacephala may potentially be alternative food resources for C. rufifacies, so that its females prefer to lay eggs in their presence. When considering the size of the oviposition media, pork livers of a relatively small size were obviously unfavorable to both species. This may be because females need to find sufficient resources to meet the food demands of their larvae. In another experiment, neither blow fly species showed an oviposition preference for pork livers of different stages of decay. In addition, the oviposition preferences of both species to those media with larvae were greatly disturbed in a dark environment. If we removed the larvae that had previously fed on the pork liver and let the females choose, no oviposition preference was observed; but both species still showed a preference for the larger media in the dark. This suggests that female blow flies can use visual cues to recognize larvae on the media and decide on their oviposition site. Our studies point out the effects of some biotic and abiotic factors which were previously overlooked, and remind us to reevaluate these effects on oviposition, especially when using insect developmental data to estimate PMIs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shih-Tsai Yang
- Department of Entomology, National Taiwan University, Taipei, Taiwan
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37
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Abstract
Myiasis is defined as the infestation of live vertebrates (humans and/or animals) with dipterous larvae. In mammals (including humans), dipterous larvae can feed on the host's living or dead tissue, liquid body substance, or ingested food and cause a broad range of infestations depending on the body location and the relationship of the larvae with the host. In this review, we deeply discuss myiasis as a worldwide infestation with different agents and with its broad scenario of clinical manifestations as well as diagnosis techniques and treatment.
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Evaluation of the internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) as a molecular marker for phylogenetic inference using sequence and secondary structure information in blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Genetica 2011; 139:1189-207. [PMID: 22198224 DOI: 10.1007/s10709-011-9621-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2011] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
The internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) is a small non-coding region located inside the nuclear ribosomal DNA cluster. ITS2 sequence variability is thought to be appropriate to differentiate species and for phylogenetic reconstructions analyses, which can be further improved if structural information is considered. We evaluated the potential of ITS2 as a molecular marker for phylogenetic inference in Calliphoridae (Diptera: Brachycera) using a broad range of inference methods and different substitution models, accounting or not for structural information. Sequence analyses revealed a hierarchically organized pattern of sequence variation and a small level of nucleotide substitution saturation. Intragenomic variation due to small sequence repeats was found mainly in the most variable domain (IV), but it has no significant impact on the phylogenetic signal at the species level. Inferred secondary structures revealed that GC pairs are more frequently found flanking bulges and loops regions in more conserved domains, thus ensuring structure stability. In the phylogenetic analyses, the use of substitution models accounting for structural information significantly improves phylogenetic inference in both neighbour-joining and Bayesian analyses, although the former provides limited resolution for dealing with highly divergent sequences. For Bayesian analyses, a significant improvement in likelihood was observed when considering structure information, although with small changes in topology and overall support, probably reflecting better evolutionary rates estimates. Based on these findings, ITS2 is a suitable molecular marker for phylogenetic analyses in Calliphoridae, at both species and generic level.
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39
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The molecular systematics of blowflies and screwworm flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) using 28S rRNA, COX1 and EF-1α: insights into the evolution of dipteran parasitism. Parasitology 2011; 138:1760-77. [PMID: 21867590 DOI: 10.1017/s0031182011001089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
The Calliphoridae include some of the most economically significant myiasis-causing flies in the world - blowflies and screwworm flies - with many being notorious for their parasitism of livestock. However, despite more than 50 years of research, key taxonomic relationships within the family remain unresolved. This study utilizes nucleotide sequence data from the protein-coding genes COX1 (mitochondrial) and EF1α (nuclear), and the 28S rRNA (nuclear) gene, from 57 blowfly taxa to improve resolution of key evolutionary relationships within the family Calliphoridae. Bayesian phylogenetic inference was carried out for each single-gene data set, demonstrating significant topological difference between the three gene trees. Nevertheless, all gene trees supported a Calliphorinae-Luciliinae subfamily sister-lineage, with respect to Chrysomyinae. In addition, this study also elucidates the taxonomic and evolutionary status of several less well-studied groups, including the genus Bengalia (either within Calliphoridae or as a separate sister-family), genus Onesia (as a sister-genera to, or sub-genera within, Calliphora), genus Dyscritomyia and Lucilia bufonivora, a specialised parasite of frogs and toads. The occurrence of cross-species hybridisation within Calliphoridae is also further explored, focusing on the two economically significant species Lucilia cuprina and Lucilia sericata. In summary, this study represents the most comprehensive molecular phylogenetic analysis of family Calliphoridae undertaken to date.
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40
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mtDNA-based identification of Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) and Lucilia sericata (Meigen) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in the continental United States. Forensic Sci Int 2010; 202:102-9. [PMID: 20537828 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2010.04.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2009] [Revised: 04/19/2010] [Accepted: 04/26/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Existing data suggest that the forensically important dipteran species Lucilia cuprina (Wiedemann) and Lucilia sericata (Meigen) may be particularly difficult to discriminate using DNA sequence data. L. cuprina is paraphyletic with respect to L. sericata in mtDNA phylogenies, with some L. cuprina having mtDNA haplotypes that are very similar to those of L. sericata. We examine this problem by providing the first DNA data for L. cuprina from North America, including portions of both the mitochondrial COI gene and the nuclear 28S rRNA gene. With the new data, L. cuprina remains monophyletic for 28S but paraphyletic with respect to L. sericata for COI. However, we find that all flies that are identified as L. cuprina by morphology and have L. sericata-like mtDNA form a distinctly monophyletic mtDNA clade. This clade may possibly have originated by hybridization between L. cuprina and L. sericata, but its wide geographic distribution strongly suggests a singular origin as opposed to repeated incidents of hybridization. The phylogenetic results strongly support the hypothesis that L. cuprina and L. sericata can be discriminated using mtDNA sequence data. We find that a fragment of COI spanning approximately 1200 base pairs is sufficient to discriminate between the two species with greater than 95% bootstrap support.
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41
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Dubey B, Meganathan PR, Haque I. DNA mini-barcoding: an approach for forensic identification of some endangered Indian snake species. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2010; 5:181-4. [PMID: 20457097 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2010.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2009] [Revised: 02/05/2010] [Accepted: 03/09/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Illegal trade of snake skin and uncontrolled hunting have instigated the extermination of many endangered snake species. Efforts to check illegal trade are often impeded due to lack of proper species identification methods. Hence, conservation strategies demand for authentic and quick identification techniques to trace the origin of the seized samples. This study employs DNA mini-barcoding as a method to identify some endangered snake species of India. We have designed two sets of novel primers for targeting regions within the mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase I gene to produce 175 bp and 245 bp amplicons. 175 bp fragment was amplified in all 11 snake species studied while the 245 bp amplicon was obtained in 10 species. DNA mini-barcodes recovered from these amplicons enabled the identification of snake species by retrieving the sequences available in public databases. The similarity scores ranging from 98 to 100% (98% taken as threshold value for species identification) signify the consistency of these mini-barcodes in snake species identification. Moreover, the results of the validation study confirm the effectiveness of the technique in forensic perspective, where the diagnostic morphological features of the seized sample are often missing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bhawna Dubey
- National DNA Analysis Centre, Central Forensic Science Laboratory, 30-Gorachand Road, Kolkata-700 014, West Bengal, India
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42
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Identification of forensically important blowfly species (Diptera: Calliphoridae) by high-resolution melting PCR analysis. Int J Legal Med 2010; 124:277-85. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-009-0396-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2009] [Accepted: 11/18/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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43
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Park SH, Zhang Y, Piao H, Yu DH, Jeong HJ, Yoo GY, Chung U, Jo TH, Hwang JJ. Use of cytochrome c oxidase subunit i (COI) nucleotide sequences for identification of the Korean Luciliinae fly species (Diptera: Calliphoridae) in forensic investigations. J Korean Med Sci 2009; 24:1058-63. [PMID: 19949660 PMCID: PMC2775852 DOI: 10.3346/jkms.2009.24.6.1058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2008] [Accepted: 12/23/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Blowflies, especially species belonging to the subfamily Luciliinae, are the first insects to lay eggs on corpses in Korea. Fast and accurate species identification has been a key task for forensic entomologists. Because conventional morphologic identification methods have many limitations with respect to forensic practice, molecular methods have been proposed to identify fly species of forensic importance. To this end, the authors amplified and sequenced the full length of the cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene of the Luciliinae fly species collected in Korea. The results showed the COI sequences are instrumental in identifying Luciliinae fly species. However, when compared with previously reported data, considerable inconsistencies were noted. Hemipyrellia ligurriens data in this study differed significantly from two of the five pre-existing data. Two closely related species, Lucilia illustris and Lucilia caesar, showed an overlap of COI haplotypes due to four European sequences. The results suggest that more individuals from various geographic regions and additive nuclear DNA markers should be analyzed, and morphologic identification keys must be reconfirmed to overcome these inconsistencies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seong Hwan Park
- Department of Legal Medicine, Colloge of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, U.S.A
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Legal Medicine, Colloge of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Huguo Piao
- Department of Legal Medicine, Colloge of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Dong Ha Yu
- Department of Legal Medicine, Colloge of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyun Ju Jeong
- Department of Legal Medicine, Colloge of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ga Young Yoo
- Department of Legal Medicine, Colloge of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ukhee Chung
- Department of Legal Medicine, Colloge of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Tae-Ho Jo
- Department of Science Education, Chinju Educational University, Jinju, Korea
| | - Juck-Joon Hwang
- Department of Legal Medicine, Colloge of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
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44
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Molecular identification of forensically important blowfly species (Diptera: Calliphoridae) from Germany. Parasitol Res 2009; 106:257-61. [DOI: 10.1007/s00436-009-1657-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2009] [Accepted: 10/08/2009] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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45
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Turner B. Forensic entomology: a template for forensic acarology? EXPERIMENTAL & APPLIED ACAROLOGY 2009; 49:15-20. [PMID: 19548095 DOI: 10.1007/s10493-009-9274-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2009] [Accepted: 05/22/2009] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Insects are used in a variety of ways in forensic science and the developing area of forensic acarology may have a similar range of potential. This short account summarises the main ways in which entomology currently contributes to forensic science and discusses to what extent acarology might also contribute in these areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bryan Turner
- Department of Forensic Science & Drug Monitoring, King's College London, 150 Stamford Street, London, SE1 9NH, UK.
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McDonagh L, Thornton C, Wallman JF, Stevens JR. Development of an antigen-based rapid diagnostic test for the identification of blowfly (Calliphoridae) species of forensic significance. Forensic Sci Int Genet 2009; 3:162-5. [PMID: 19414163 DOI: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2009.01.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
In this study we examine the limitations of currently used sequence-based approaches to blowfly (Calliphoridae) identification and evaluate the utility of an immunological approach to discriminate between blowfly species of forensic importance. By investigating antigenic similarity and dissimilarity between the first instar larval stages of four forensically important blowfly species, we have been able to identify immunoreactive proteins of potential use in the development of species-specific immuno-diagnostic tests. Here we outline our protein-based approach to species determination, and describe how it may be adapted to develop rapid diagnostic assays for the 'on-site' identification of blowfly species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura McDonagh
- Hatherly Laboratories, School of Biosciences, University of Exeter, Prince of Wales Road, Exeter, EX4 4PS, UK
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El Mujtar V, Covelli J, Delfino MA, Grau O. Molecular identification of Cinara cupressi and Cinara tujafilina (Hemiptera, Aphididae). ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY 2009; 38:505-512. [PMID: 19389302 DOI: 10.1603/022.038.0226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
A condition called "cypress mortality" affects forest of Austrocedrus chilensis (D. Don) Pic. Ser et Bizarri in Argentina. Their classic groups of symptoms has been described as a slow process of defoliation that culminating in death of the tree; nevertheless, dying and recently dead trees with abundant foliage are frequently observed in which foliage changes to red. Cinara (Cupressobium) cupressi (Buckton) is considered the agent responsible for reddening this indigenous conifer in Chile. Therefore, the relationship between the presence of C. cupressi and the new aerial symptoms in A. chilensis from Argentina required evaluation. However, Cinara (Cupressobium) tujafilina (del Guercio) also has been reported from this host, and the differentiation of both species of Cinara is time consuming and requires a great expertise because they share many morphologic and microscopic characters. A rapid molecular method of identification of C. cupressi and C. tujafilina is desirable to detect and differentiate them. We report the development and evaluation of a polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method based on the mitochrondial cytochrome oxidase I gene to identify C. cupressi and C. tujafilina in colonies of aphids. The first detection of C. cupressi from A. chilensis in Argentina, is reported based on the new method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verónica El Mujtar
- Instituto de Biotecnología y Biología Molecular (IBBM), CCT La Plata CONICET Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Calle 49 y 115 s/n, 1900 La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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Yeh WB, Lee HM, Tu WC, Tang LC, Lee PY. Molecular differentiation and diversity of Forcipomyia taiwana (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) based on the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase II sequence. JOURNAL OF MEDICAL ENTOMOLOGY 2009; 46:249-256. [PMID: 19351075 DOI: 10.1603/033.046.0209] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Forcipomyia taiwana (Shiraki), a biting midge, is one of the most annoying blood-sucking pests in Taiwan. In this study, partial DNA sequences of cytochrome c oxidase II from 113 individuals collected from 11 locations around the island were analyzed to delineate the differentiation pattern and possible dispersal processes of F. taiwana in Taiwan. The uncorrected nucleotide divergences, composed of mostly transition substitutions, were high (up to 2.7%) among the samples. Average comparable variations (approximately equal to 0.7%) were found within and between populations. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that several distinct lineages exist and some can be found simultaneously in some populations. A relationship between sequence divergences among populations and their relative geographical distances was observed. Moreover, haplotype diversity was high in all populations, and low to middle levels (Fst = 0.004-0.288) of genetic differentiation were found among populations. Linearized calibration from sequence divergences and phylogenetic analysis showed that different ancestral lineages of F. taiwana possibly emerged as early as 0.6 million years ago. Taken together, genetic exchanges among these divergently ancestral lineages, likely caused by recent artificial events, have possibly led to the similarly diversified compositions of F. taiwana populations all around Taiwan nowadays.
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Affiliation(s)
- W B Yeh
- Department of Entomology, National Chung Hsing University, Taichung 40227, Taiwan, R.O.C
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Sukontason KL, Sribanditmongkol P, Chaiwong T, Vogtsberger RC, Piangjai S, Sukontason K. Morphology of immature stages of Hemipyrellia ligurriens (Wiedemann) (Diptera: Calliphoridae) for use in forensic entomology applications. Parasitol Res 2008; 103:877-87. [PMID: 18568445 DOI: 10.1007/s00436-008-1072-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2008] [Accepted: 05/27/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Kabkaew L Sukontason
- Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
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A global study of forensically significant calliphorids: implications for identification. Forensic Sci Int 2008; 177:66-76. [PMID: 18295422 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2007.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2006] [Revised: 09/12/2007] [Accepted: 10/31/2007] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
A proliferation of molecular studies of the forensically significant Calliphoridae in the last decade has seen molecule-based identification of immature and damaged specimens become a routine complement to traditional morphological identification as a preliminary to the accurate estimation of post-mortem intervals (PMI), which depends on the use of species-specific developmental data. Published molecular studies have tended to focus on generating data for geographically localised communities of species of importance, which has limited the consideration of intraspecific variation in species of global distribution. This study used phylogenetic analysis to assess the species status of 27 forensically important calliphorid species based on 1167 base pairs of the COI gene of 119 specimens from 22 countries, and confirmed the utility of the COI gene in identifying most species. The species Lucilia cuprina, Chrysomya megacephala, Ch. saffranea, Ch. albifrontalis and Calliphora stygia were unable to be monophyletically resolved based on these data. Identification of phylogenetically young species will require a faster-evolving molecular marker, but most species could be unambiguously characterised by sampling relatively few conspecific individuals if they were from distant localities. Intraspecific geographical variation was observed within Ch. rufifacies and L. cuprina, and is discussed with reference to unrecognised species.
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