Effect of Temperature on Six Different Developmental Landmarks within the Pupal Stage of the Forensically Important Blowfly Calliphora vicina Robineau-Desvoidy Diptera: Calliphoridae

• NCJ Number: 246245
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: 6 Dated: November 2013 Pages: 1554-1557
• Author(s): Francesco Defilippo M.S.; Paolo Bonilauri B.D.; Michele Dottori
• Date Published: November 2013
• Length: 4 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This study investigates the pupal development times of the blow fly Calliphora vicina, which were studied in the laboratory at six different constant temperatures 15, 20, 23, 25, 28, and 30 degrees C each +/- 1 degrees C.

Abstract

This study investigates the pupal development times of the blow fly Calliphora vicina, which were studied in the laboratory at six different constant temperatures 15, 20, 23, 25, 28, and 30 degrees C each +/- 1 degrees C. Lower thresholds tL for development were estimated from the linear regression of the developmental rates on each temperature. These data have made it possible to calculate the accumulated degree days ADD necessary for C. vicina to complete the larval stage and to achieve adult emergence. The minimal duration of development from oviposition to adult emergence was found to be inversely related to temperature. Additionally, six landmarks in pupal development are showed, and for each of the landmarks, the ADD value was calculated for every rearing temperature involved. These data assist in calculating the duration of the pupal stage based on morphological characteristics and would be of great value for future forensic entomological casework. Abstract published by arrangement with Wiley.