Insect diversity and succession patterns on pig cadavers in Changwon, South Korea

Abstract

AbstractSuccession patterns spanning three seasons for insect fauna on pig cadavers were studied in Changwon, South Korea in 2018 and 2019. A total of 107 species belonging to 41 families in six orders were collected and identified. Four decomposition stages were recognized: fresh, bloated, decay, and dry. The number of species increased significantly after the fresh stage and reached the maximum number by the decay stage. The sequence of insect succession followed a general pattern in which Diptera peaked initially and Coleoptera peaked later. Chrysomya pinguis was the most frequently present species, and the timing of its different developmental stages on cadavers could be the most important indicator for post‐mortem interval estimations in Changwon. Spatial and seasonal differences in the richness of insects were not significant. However, Calliphora nigribarbis occurred exclusively in spring and autumn, and Pheropsophus javanus occurred exclusively in one locality. Therefore, these species may be important for characterizing the different seasons or locations during post‐mortem interval estimations. A list of the insects associated with above‐ground pig cadavers during the three seasons was compiled, and it may be useful for estimating the time since death in areas with a similar bioclimate.