Does sharp force trauma alter blow fly attraction to, colonization of, and decomposition of vertebrate remains?

• Published in: Entomologia experimentalis et applicata 2019-05, Vol.167 (5), p.490-499
• Main Authors: Munro, Holly L., Mondor, Edward B., Lampert, Evan C.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Calliphoridae; Colonization; Communities; Decomposition; Diptera; Experimentation; forensic entomology; Forensic science; Insects; Instars; Lucilia coeruleiviridis; PMI; PMImin; postmortem interval; stillborn pigs; succession; Suidae; total body score; Trauma; Vertebrates
• ISSN: 0013-8703; 1570-7458
• DOI: 10.1111/eea.12767

Forensic entomologists use insect evidence to estimate the minimum postmortem interval of human remains. However, how different forms of trauma influence insect attraction to, and colonization of, the body is poorly understood. Our objective was to identify the Calliphoridae community present in the Piedmont region (Georgia, USA), and determine whether postmortem sharp force trauma (none vs. slashed vs. stabbed) altered insect attraction, colonization, and the resulting decomposition rate of stillborn pigs (Suidae). We show that the limited blow fly community is dominated by Lucilia coeruleiviridis Macquart (Diptera: Calliphoridae). Third instars (L3) of L. coeruleiviridis were found on control pigs at 48 h, slashed pigs at 36 h, and stabbed pigs at 24 h. Decomposition rate, as determined by total body score, was greater in the first 12 h in stabbed pigs, compared to control and slashed pigs. Further experimentation is required to determine the effect of different forms of trauma on insect attraction, colonization, and resulting vertebrate decomposition rates. Does postmortem trauma (i.e., slashing or stabbing) influence decomposition or alter Calliphoridae (Diptera) microcommunities associated with carrion? We found no effect of treatment on attraction of adult flies, but Lucilia coeruleiviridis larval growth and abundance was affected. Furthermore, we summarize important Calliphoridae species in Georgia, USA. Prior research has been performed to identify relevant species in surrounding states, but little to no data exist on species in this ecoregion.