Entomology Services

Medico-legal uses

Forensic entomology is most widely used to address medico-legal problems.  However, many of the techniques used can also be applied in animal cruelty and poaching cases.

Forensic entomology service

A commercial entomology consulting service is available from the VIFM.  Services offered are insect identification, and advice on the interpretation of insect evidence in legal cases.  Contact Dr Melanie Archer for details.

Forensic entomology at the VIFM

The entomology service not only provides expert analysis and opinions in VIFM cases where entomological issues are involved, but it also seeks to develop and advance the science of forensic entomology in Victoria through ongoing research and teaching.

Uses of forensic entomology

• estimation of the minimum time since death using insect activity on bodies as a timeline.  This may be important in cases involving murder, suicide, accident, or suspected neglect of persons in care.
• differentiation of insect feeding damage to bodies from trauma that may have occurred around the time of death.  For example, ant feeding patterns on skin may sometimes resemble acid burns.
• determination of whether bodies have been moved after death.  Some insects have very restricted geographic ranges, and can act as indicators if they are associated with a body that has been transported outside this range.
• reconstruction of events that occurred after death by examining insect infestation patterns on bodies.  For example, opinions may be provided on whether a body was buried soon after death, located indoors since death, or exposed to the elements.
• assessment of  parasite infestations in abuse and neglect cases.  Important factors may include the identity of the parasite, the size of the infestation and the appropriateness of any treatment given to the infested person.
• identification of venomous invertebrates implicated in human deaths
• identification of pest insects infesting (or contaminating) food and stored products.
• identification of pest insects infesting structures such as houses.