What is Entomology and How is it Used in Criminal Investigations?

Forensic scientists now use Entomology in manyFor instance, a colony of insects that have grown
criminal investigations particularly murder cases.upon a corpse and possibly produced offspring, would
Entomology is the study of insects and is a branch ofgive a specific time span.
zoology.Certain species of insects will feed on dead human
It's often misunderstood that forensic entomologiststissue which will give an indication of time of death.
are able to make an accurate estimate of a person'sFor example, the Sarcophaga haemorrhoidalis or the
time of death. As a matter of fact, it is the medicalflesh fly prefers the indoors and grows as it feeds. It
pathologists that estimate time of death and not thealso has the capacity to give live birth, which has
forensic entomologist. All forensic entomologists cangenerated theories on the spontaneous generation of
do is make a very precise estimate of post-mortemlife.
time through their expert understanding of theForensic Science understands insects are now used
growth and lifespan of insects.to determine levels of toxicity due to drug use when
For each specific species of insects there a varietyno other source is present. When there is no blood,
of different variables that can effect their growth.tissue or urine, insects are used to detect the
Studies have shown that in a perfect environmentpresence of narcotics or other drugs.
insects can grow at an astounding rate. ProfessionalComment: If you require further information on
forensic entomologists create a baseline for insectsentomology or entomology expert witness services
development time in order for them to be able toplease visit Forensic Resources ltd.
estimate how long a dead body has been deceased.