What does forensic entomology involve?

Forensic entomology specifically focuses on the use of insects and their developmental stages in the context of crime scene investigation. When a body is associated with various species of insects, entomologists can provide valuable information regarding the time of death, or the post-mortem interval, which can be crucial for establishing timelines in criminal cases. The presence of certain insects at a scene can indicate how long the body has been exposed and helps investigators understand other environmental factors that may affect decomposition. This field effectively combines aspects of biology, ecology, and forensic science to aid in legal investigations.