Effect of Cold Environmental Conditions on the Life Cycle and Growth of Forensically Important Calliphoridae - Case Report Mehra Diksha1, Bharti Mala2,* 1B.Sc (H) Forensic Science Student, G D Goenka University 2Assistant Professor, School of Engineering and Sciences, G D Goenka University *Corresponding Author : Mala Bharti, Assistant Professor, School of Engineering and Sciences, G D Goenka University, Contact: +91-, E-mail: mala.bharti@gdgu.org
Online Published on 28 July, 2023. Abstract Introduction Forensic Entomology is an applied branch of forensic science dealing with the role of arthropods, majorly decomposing the body. The activity of these flies is highly significant and widely accepted in the determination of time since death. The present case report is to determine the effect of colder environmental conditions on the life cycle and growth of Calliphoridae. In this, beef liver was subjected to an environment with low temperatures and high humidity levels. At equal intervals of time, changes were observed and noted. The flies were attracted in about 4-5 days after the samples were kept. First instar larvae were visible on the 6th day. Followed by 2nd instar larvae on the 9th day and 3rd instar larvae on the 11th day. Since then, the larvae were observed to be voraciously feeding at a high rate and later isolating themselves for pupation. Pupa started to form on 15th day and pupas are since then changing colors from white to grey to orange to wine to dark wine. This report shall help in the determination of the time of death when the body is found in colder areas or winter season where the temperature is ranging from 9.78°C-12°C in the night and early mornings. While afternoon remains from 12°C-20°C. Humidity ranges 85% on rainy days. And normal mornings and evenings to be 78-70% while afternoons vary from 65-40%. Top Keywords Forensic Entomology, Life Cycle, Post Mortem Interval, Pupation, Calliphoridae. Top |