Forensic Entomology Test

Front

What is forensic entomology?

Back

Forensic entomology is the study of insect life cycles and their relationship to legal investigations, particularly in determining the time of death (post-mortem interval) in homicide cases.

Front

What is the significance of larval crop contents in forensic investigations?

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Analysis of larval crop contents can help identify a victim by extracting undigested human DNA.

Front

How do accumulated degree hours (ADH) relate to insect development?

Back

Accumulated degree hours (ADH) measure the amount of heat required for an insect to develop through its life stages, allowing forensic entomologists to estimate the time of death.

Front

What is the average temperature used to calculate ADH for blowflies?

Back

The average temperature used to calculate ADH for blowflies is typically around 20°C.

Front

What is the importance of matching lab conditions to the crime scene in PMI estimation?

Back

Using the same temperature and humidity as the crime scene ensures the accuracy of the post-mortem interval (PMI) estimate.

Front

Why is it important to collect both live and preserved insect specimens at a crime scene?

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Live specimens can be reared to adulthood for accurate species identification, while preserved specimens help in determining the cause of death.

Front

What does the presence of coffin fly larvae in a suspect's car suggest?

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The presence of coffin fly larvae suggests that a decomposing body may have been in the vehicle.

Front

What are the five stages of development for a blowfly?

Back

The five stages of development for a blowfly are: egg, first instar, second instar, third instar, and pupa.

Front

How can forensic entomologists use insect species to determine time of death?

Back

Different insect species colonize a body at different stages of decomposition, allowing forensic entomologists to estimate the time of death based on the species present.

Front

What role does temperature play in insect development rates?

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Temperature affects the metabolic rate of insects; higher temperatures generally accelerate development, while lower temperatures slow it down.