Journal Published Online: 01 November 1997
Volume 42, Issue 6

Estimation of Postmortem Interval Based on Colony Development Time for (Hymenoptera: Formicidae)

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The postmortem interval for a set of human remains discovered inside a metal tool box was estimated using the development time required for a stratiomyid fly (Diptera: Stratiomyidae), Hermetia illucens, in combination with the time required to establish a colony of the ant Anoplolepsis longipes (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) capable of producing alate (winged) reproductives. This analysis resulted in a postmortem interval estimate of 14 + months, with a period of 14–18 months being the most probable time interval. The victim had been missing for approximately 18 months.

Author Information

Goff, ML
City and County of Honolulu, Honolulu, HI
Win, BH
Pages: 4
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS14281J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS14281J