Forensic entomologists use their knowledge of insects and and their life cycles and behaviors to give them clues about a crime. Most insects used in forensic investigations are in two major orders: Diptera (flies) and Coleoptera (beetles).
Species succession may provide clues for investigators. Some insect species may feed on a fresh corpse, while another species may prefer to feed on one that has been dead for two weeks. Other insect species that prey on the insects feeding on the corpse may also be found.
Weather data is also an important tool in analyzing insect evidence from a corpse. Investigators will make note of the temperature of the air, ground surface, the interface area between the body and the ground, and the soil under the body as well as the temperature inside any maggot masses. They will also collect weather data related to daily temperature (highs/lows) and precipitation for a period of time before the body was discovered to the day the insect evidence was collected.
List two pieces of equipment used for collecting insects at a crime scene and explain how they are
used.
Two pieces of equipment used for collecting insects at a crime scene are:
1. Entomological forceps: Entomological forceps are specialized forceps designed for handling delicate insect specimens without causing damage or altering their shape. They have fine, pointed tips that allow investigators to carefully pick up and maneuver insects without harming them. When collecting insects at a crime scene, the entomological forceps are used to gently grasp and transfer the insects into a suitable container or specimen vials for further analysis and identification.
2. Aspirator (insect aspirator): An insect aspirator is a device used to capture small insects, such as flies or beetles, without directly touching them. It consists of a tube with a narrow opening at one end and a bulb or suction mechanism at the other end. To use an insect aspirator, the investigator positions the narrow end close to the desired insect and creates suction by either squeezing the bulb or using the suction mechanism. The suction draws the insect into the tube, effectively capturing it. The captured insects can then be released into a container or specimen vial for examination and analysis later.
Both entomological forceps and insect aspirators allow forensic entomologists to collect insects at a crime scene while minimizing damage to the specimens and ensuring accurate analysis and identification.