Forensics Insects

Body Farm

A research facility in Knoxville, TN, that investigates human decomposition under various conditions.

entomologist

A scientist that studies insect activity on decomposing bodies

Instar 3

A stage in the blowfly lifecycle that is characterized by active feeding and 3 spiracle slits in the anus of the maggot.

Pupa

A stage in the blowfly's lifecycle that is characterized by immobility and dormancy,

Fresh

A stage in the decomposition process in which blowflies first arrive to lay eggs

Moist

Favorable conditions for a blowfly to law eggs

Adult blowfly

Fly appearance, but with smaller crumpled wings Size varies Black or green

Egg

Found in moist, warm areas White 2mm (1-23 hours)

Pupa

Immobile, does not feed Dark brown 9 mm Several weeks

Coleoptera

Order that included beetles

Diptera

Order that includes flies

Crumpled

A description of the wings of blowfly right after it hatches

Maggot trail

A process in which the maggots crawl away from the body

Orifice

An opening in the body, such as a nostril or anus

Instar 3

Black mouth hooks, covered by fat, three spiracle splits near anus 17 mm White 130 hours

Instar 1

Black mouth hooks, one spiracle, slits near anus White 5 mm (24-27 hours)

Instar 2

Black mouth hooks, two spiral slits near anus, actively feeding White 10 mm (22-24 hours)

Interval

The time between death and the discovery of a body as the postmortem______