Forensic entomology is the study of application of the insects and other arthropods in the criminal investigations. Insects or arthropods are found in a decomposing vertebrate corpse or carrion. These insects can be used to estimate the time of death i.e. the time interval of death and corpse discovery, also called postmortem index(PMI), movement of the corpse, manner and cause of death and association of the suspects at the death scene.
The first recorded incident where the insects were used in the criminal investigation was in 13th century in china as described in Sung Tzu's book called the washing away of wrongs. When a farmer was found murdered in a field with a sharp weapon, all suspects were told to place their sickles on the ground. Only one sickle was attracted blow flies to the trace amount of blood hidden to the naked eye which resulted in the confession of the murderer.
Insects mostly involved in the forensic investigations are true flies and diptera. The predominant species in this order are Calliphoridae(blow flies), Sacrophagidae(flesh flies) and Muscidae(houseflies). Calliphoridae(blow flies), Sacrophagidae(flesh flies) may arrive within minutes following the death. Muscidae delay colonization until the bloat stages of decomposition. Calliphoridae adults are commonly shiny with the metallic colouring, often with blue, green or black thoraxes and abdomen. Sarcophagidae are medium sized flies with black and grey longitudinal stripes on the thorax and checkering abdomen.
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Entomology