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Width as an alternative measurement to length for post-mortem interval estimations using Calliphora augur (Diptera:
Donnah M Day1, James F Wallman
1Institute for Conservation Biology, School of Biological Sciences, University of Wollongong, Northfields Avenue, Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia. day1don@police.nsw.gov.au
Forensic Science International
|September 29, 2005
Summary
Forensic entomology can estimate time since death using fly larval length. Larval width, measured accurately, offers a reliable alternative to length, even with head-curling, improving age estimation from corpses.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Entomology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Estimating time since death is crucial in forensic investigations.
- Fly larval length is a common, but potentially inaccurate, method due to 'head-curling'.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate larval body width as a reliable predictor of age in Calliphora augur.
- To determine if larval width can overcome the limitations of length measurements in forensic entomology.
Main Methods:
- Calliphora augur larvae were reared on sheep liver at constant temperatures (20°C and 25°C).
- Larval body length and width were measured at regular intervals until pupation.
- Statistical analysis was performed to assess age prediction accuracy.
Main Results:
- Larval body width, specifically at the fifth and sixth abdominal segments, proved comparable to body length for age prediction.
- A simple linear model accurately converted larval width to length with 95% accuracy.
- Both length and width measurements were reliable predictors of age at the tested temperatures.
Conclusions:
- Larval body width is a viable and accurate alternative to length for estimating the age of Calliphora augur maggots.
- This finding offers a more robust method for forensic entomological age estimation, mitigating issues like head-curling.
