Identification of forensically important ant beetles on exposed human left over parts in Assiut, Egypt during spring/summer season

ABSTRACT

Beetles [Coleoptera] have been recognized as significant entomological evidence in the medico4e gal field in estimating the postmortem interval [PMI], particularly with reference to dry human skeletal remains in the later stages of decomposition. Beetles are found as adults, larvae, pupae and also as cast skins and all are of equal importance. Histeridae [histerid beetles] occur wherever there is decay and putrefaction. They feed primarily on the blowfly maggots and pupae. Dermestidae [dermestid beetles] are well known to feed on dried skin and bones. They are considered true carrion feeders, playing an important role in carcass degradation. There are few published works about the beetle fauna of forensic importance in Egypt; therefore their identification in given area should be established. The study herein aimed to describe adults Coleoptera species involved in carrion succession and document their fauna in relation to decomposition stages of exposed human tissues in Assiut [Upper Egypt], which is known for its arid weather. Human left over parts from orthopaedic theatre were used. Collected beetles were identified according to their taxonomic parts and characters Two Families were recognized; Family Histeridae including Saprinus blanchei and Saprinus gilvicornis and family Dermestidae represented by Dermestes frischii. The presented findings should provide data for use in legal investigations and medical purposes in our region