New geographic location data on the occurrence and abundance of carrion insects of forensic interest.

Abstract

The world's forensic entomologists have much in common. They face similar research challenges, apply the same scientific methodology, study the same kinds of evidence, and access global research databases. Nevertheless, some regional heterogeneity inevitably exists. For most countries, and particularly those that have complex and diverse ecosystems, the current priority is to stimulate use of forensic entomology by establishing open access databases with time series data using standardised protocols for occurrence, abundance, distribution, niche preferences, life cycle, and identification characteristics for the key regional species that may be encountered in forensic entomology cases. Even in countries where forensic entomology is routinely used as a tool in reconstructing the history of corpses found on crime scenes in accordance with principles found in the rapidly developing body of literature, there is still much to learn about forensically useful insects. Examples of regional gaps include the taxonomy of lesser-known carrion insect species, seasonal occurrence of carrion species in the country's various geographical regions, and rates of development of the local species modeled in the many site situations of forensic interest. The first published study of carrion insects found in Athens, Greece published in this journal is an example of entomologists in a region taking the necessary first step towards establishing baseline data about native and introduced species and hence, physiological and behavioural responses to local environmental conditions, including life cycles and likelihood of occurrence or absence in the region.