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A comparison of animal jaws and bite mark patterns
Denise C Murmann1, Paula C Brumit, Bruce A Schrader
1The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio (UTHSCSA), Center for Education and Research in Forensics (CERF), Mail Code 7919, 7703 Floyd Curl Drive, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA. dcmurmann@juno.com
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|August 3, 2006
Summary
This study compared wild and domestic animal jaw shapes and bite marks to aid bite mark analysis. A new measurement technique for canine teeth improves accuracy in identifying animal bite evidence.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Science
- Zoology
- Comparative Anatomy
Background:
- Animal bite mark analysis is crucial in forensic investigations.
- Distinguishing between wild and domestic animal bites can be challenging.
- Existing methods may not fully capture the nuances of animal dentition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare jaw morphology and bite mark patterns of wild versus domestic animals.
- To provide data to assist forensic investigators in analyzing animal bite marks.
- To develop an improved method for measuring intercanine distances.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 12 species within the Order Carnivora from the Field Museum of Natural History.
- Metric analysis and photographic documentation of skulls using an ABFO No. 2 scale.
- Creation and photography of bite patterns from maxillary and mandibular dentition using polystyrene exemplars.
- Development of a modified technique for measuring intercanine distances, including three areas on the canines.
Main Results:
- A total of 486 specimens were examined.
- A modified technique for measuring intercanine distances was successfully developed.
- The new measurement technique accommodates variances in bite injury depth for enhanced accuracy.
Conclusions:
- The study provides valuable comparative data on wild and domestic animal dentition.
- The refined measurement technique enhances the potential for accurate identification of animal bite marks.
- This research supports forensic casework involving animal bite evidence.