Development of DNA Identification Techniques for Forensically Important Insects; Molecular Phylogeny of Chrysomya Albiceps and C. Rufifacies (Diptera: Calliphoridae)

• NCJ Number: 177410
• Author(s): J D Wells; F A H Sperling
• Date Published: 1999
• Length: 5 pages
• Grant Number(s): 97-IJ-CX-0035
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored

Annotation

This paper examines the development of DNA identification techniques for forensically important insects.

Abstract

Insects are commonly used as evidence in death investigations. However, the effort may be hampered by difficulties in identifying the immature stages (eggs and larvae) that are most often found at a crime scene. This study extracted DNA from adult carrion flies and characterized it for use in classifying forensic samples. The current database is estimated to contain data on more than 90 percent of the forensic entomological cases in the US. The study concluded that all species could be identified using DNA. A few species were so similar that a hypervariable region was used to separate them. Reference data from a single specimen of Chrysomya Albiceps or Chrysomya Rufifacies was sufficient for distinguishing specimens from around the world. Table, figure, references