Succession of forensically important insects on large mammal carcasses in a central European mixed forest.

• Applicant: Dr. Senta Niederegger
• Subject Area: Pathology ; Criminology ; Ecology and Biodiversity of Animals and Ecosystems, Organismic Interactions
• Term: Funded in 2015
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 269106754

The main task of Forensic Entomology is estimation of the long term post mortem interval of a human corpse based to its infestation with insects. The exact knowledge on the local entomofauna is essential to fulfilling this goal.From October 2009 to October 2010 the succession on large mammal cadavers in a Central European mixed forest was studied using five pig carcasses. Several active and passive trap systems were employed on and in the surroundings of the carcasses which yielded a total number of about 20.000 individual insects. Temperature, wind and rainfall were simultaneously recorded on site and obtained from a near-by observatory.In order to determine the relevant insects collected (mainly diptera and coleoptera) the expertise of a skilled entomologist is necessary. We therefore apply for a grant for said task and to write a scientific publication on the subject.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants