A new dipteran forensic indicator in buried bodies

The first breeding records of miltogrammine fleshflies in buried vertebrate carrion are presented. First instars of Eumacronychia persolla Reinhard (Nearctic) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) and Phylloteles pictipennis Loew (Palaearctic) (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) are able to penetrate dry, loose soil and reach deeply buried animal remains, an ability which distinguishes is unique to necrophagous Calyptratae. Their broad geographical distribution, fast location and colonization of carrion, complete development on buried food resources and easy identification make these species useful forensic indicators in buried bodies in dry habitats.