SD43: Forensically relevant insect diversity associated with human remains in the midwestern US

In forensic entomology, Insect evidence can be applied in death investigations to provide a minimum time of colonization (TOC). The TOC may provide a minimum postmortem interval (PMI) for a criminal investigation. The diversity of insect evidence can vary and is impacted by factors such as location, habitat, season and concealment of remains. This presentation will provide an overview of insect evidence associated with human remains and the diversity of insects associated with death investigations across Indiana, and the surrounding states. Blow flies (Diptera: Calliphoridae) associated with decomposition in this area are diverse and abundant on remains, particularly in the summer and fall seasons. While Phormia regina Meigen is the most frequently collected, a variety of Lucilia and Calliphora species were documented. Fewer forensically relevant beetles were collected, with the majority identified as Creophilus maxillosus (Coleoptera: Staphylinidae), however, other families were represented, including Histeridae, Dermestidae, and Cleridae. This information contributes to documentation of forensically relevant insects in this area and may be beneficial for future death investigations.