This work focuses on the introduction of Forensic Entomology to forensic scientists and recent studies worldwide. It begins with a review of the first study in the 13th century in China, continuing with studies in the 19th century in France and Germany and finishing with studies in Europe and North America in the 20th and 21st centuries. Followed by a comprehensive description on why insects can be utilised to solve crimes, the phases of a cadaver in decomposition, and the relationship with environmental conditions. For instance, why, in Neotropical regions these phases can be different.
Furthermore this book discusses the main challenges faced by forensic entomologists in order to do this area respect and to utilise it in the studies of crimes. It also deals with several real case studies where forensic entomology was utilized to solve them. Also discussed are new studies in Forensic Entomology where new technologies are being utilized, such as, Entomotoxicology, DNA sequence, PCR, Mathematical Models, etc. Studies on post feeding larval dispersal are discussed and why this process is so important to estimate the post mortem interval, and the implications that non consideration of it could cause.
This is the first time that Forensic Entomology has been discussed so deeply.