An Initial Study On Arthropod Succession On Exposed Human Tissues In Assiut, Egypt

Abstract

Forensic entomology uses different stages of arthropods as an entomological evidence at death scene to estimate the postmortem interval (PMI) using either succession waves or maggot age and its development. The arthropod succession patterns are greatly affected by temperature and humidity. Their development rate also differs physiologically depending on their geographical origin. Therefore the knowledge of local fauna is very useful in forensic investigations. Data from other areas having both different environmental and faunal characteristics might provide insufficient degree of accuracy. The aim of this study is to document arthropod fauna and succession pattern in relation to decomposition stages of human left over parts, in Assiut, during spring-summer season. The experiment was performed during springsummer season. Human left over parts from orthopedic theatre were used. Specimens were placed in a box, floored with soil and protected with scavenger-exclusion cage and placed upon the roof of Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University Campus. Inspection of the specimens was done and at each visit flying insects, larvae and crawling species were collected. Immature stages were reared in the laboratory till adult stage in order to be identified. The results of main insect groups were discussed in relation to decomposition stages. Many insect species were identified and the following orders were represented: Diptera (Calliphoridae, Sarcophagidae, and Muscidae), Coleoptera (Dermestidae) and Hymenoptera (Formicidae). Preliminary documentation of entomofauna of Assiut city (arid, urban environment)