Forensic Entomology in Criminal Investigations: Principles, Applications, and Challenges

Abstract

Forensic entomology, the scientific study of insects and arthropods in legal contexts, has emerged as a powerful tool in criminal investigations, particularly in determining the postmortem interval (PMI). This paper provides a comprehensive review of forensic entomology, including its theoretical foundations, methodological approaches, applications in criminal cases, and inherent limitations. The study synthesizes current literature on insect succession, developmental biology, and entomotoxicology, emphasizing the role of blowflies (Calliphoridae) and other taxa in PMI estimation. Tabular comparisons of key insect species and graphical descriptions of colonization timelines are incorporated to enhance interpretability. Despite its accuracy and reliability, forensic entomology faces challenges related to environmental variability, species identification, and external influencing factors. The paper concludes by highlighting future directions, including the integration of molecular tools and artificial intelligence in forensic investigations.