Exploring the World of Forensic Entomology

Exploring the World of Forensic Entomology

26/03/2024

Learning Objective

Understand laboratory entomological techniques and their application in forensic science.

What do you already know about entomological techniques in forensic science?

Introduction to Entomological Techniques

To determine different insect species, entomologists utilise several techniques: 

1. Classification keys
2. Raising larvae
3. Recording temperature 

Use of Classification Keys

Identification keys are used to determine exactly what type of insect they have found. 

Raising Larvae to Adulthood

Larvae are difficult to identify, but adults have more diagnostic features. 

Flesh fly (tl), then blow fly (bl), then beetle (br). 

Recording Temperature and Development Times

Temperature plays a crucial role in development and activity of insect species in decomposition. It helps estimate the post mortem interval (PMI)

Recognising the life cycle helps connect developmental stages to different PMI estimation methods.

Degree-days

Degree-days represents accumulated heat units required for insect development. This is a measurement of heat unit accumulation over time. 

Development is predictable using growing degree-days (GDD). This is dependent on three things: 

1. Lower developmental threshold - Lowest temperature at which an insect can develop
2. Upper developmental threshold - Highest temperature at which the insect can develop
3. Biofix - The starting point for accumulating degree days. Usually started on January 1st. 

Interactive Activity: Classification Keys

Hands-on activity to practice using classification keys to identify different insect specimens.

Case Study: Estimating Time of Death

Analyzing a case study to apply knowledge of temperature and development times in estimating the time of death in a forensic scenario.

Conclusion and Recap

Summarizing key concepts and techniques learned in the lesson.

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.