Forensic entomology is the study of insects and other arthropods to determine the time, location, and circumstances of death. This branch of forensic science uses the life cycles of insects and their behavior to provide information that can help investigators solve crimes, particularly homicides.
Forensic entomologists collect and analyze insects found at crime scenes, on corpses, and in the surrounding environment. They examine the life stages, species, and abundance of the insects to estimate the time since death, which is also known as the postmortem interval (PMI). The PMI can be determined by studying the growth stage of insect larvae or the age of adult insects present at the crime scene. Additionally, the presence of certain insects, such as carrion beetles, can help identify whether the body was moved after death.
Forensic entomologists can also provide information about the manner of death, such as whether the victim was poisoned, as well as the presence of drugs or toxins in the body. They can also determine whether the body was exposed to certain environmental conditions, such as high or low temperatures, and whether the body was buried or exposed.