Keys for identification of third instar larva and adult blowflies of forensic importance

Abstract

Blow flies are important bio-indicators in forensic investigations. Species identification is a key step in forensic entomology. This paper describes the morphological characters of adult flies and third instar larvae of Chrysomya megacephala, C. rufifacies and C. bezziana which are forensically important flies. This simplified key will enable easy identification of these flies which are commonly present in Chennai and are of importance in forensic investigation.