Exploiting insect olfaction in forensic entomology

Abstract

Insects, specifically blowflies (Diptera: Calliphoridae), are often the first to arrive at the scene of a crime and provide crucial information including post mortem interval and whether the body has been moved from its original location, amongst other useful information. History tells us that insects' association with death was recognised as early as documentation of events could be made (Greenberg and Kunich 2005; Benecke 2001). As we continue to understand this link dramatic advances, such as those mentioned throughout this book, are continually being made in the field of Forensic Entomology in relation to different situations, environments, as well as the incorporation of new approaches. While the methods used to determine the post-mortem interval (PMI), such as larval age determination and arthropod succession, are continually being used and further investigated the mechanism which attracts the flies to the body has not been fully explored. It is well documented that female flies will lay eggs near wounds or natural orifices soon after death so that the larvae may develop in a moist area (Smith 1986; Anderson 2001). However, determining exactly what attracts insects to a decomposing body and cause behavioural responses such as mating and laying eggs (oviposition), has still not been identified.