Examining growth rates of Scopulariopsis brevicaulis on decomposing porcine remains

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine growth rates for the filamentous fungus Scopulariopsis brevicaulis on decomposing porcine remains in relation to three controlled temperatures. This study was performed by inoculating porcine tissue samples retrieved from the same source. These samples were placed into three controlled environments to examine changes over a month. This study was intended to develop a photographic and quantifiable chronology of fungal growth that can be used as a reference by investigative personnel interested in utilizing mycological evidence in death investigations. Providing this novel information to the inadequately studied discipline of forensic mycology is intended to help establish the credibility of this field. These efforts will aid in interpreting post-mortem intervals for cadavers experiencing fungal growth in controlled indoor environments.