Insect Activity and Its Relationship to Decay Rates of Human Cadavers in East Tennessee

Author

William C. Rodriguez III, University of Tennessee, Knoxville

Date of Award

8-1982

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts

Major

Anthropology

Major Professor

William M. Bass

Committee Members

Richard Jantz, Fred H. Smith

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to collect data on the specific insects which are found in association with decaying human cadavers. Four nude unembalmed human cadavers were each placed, at various times of the year, within a decay research facility located in an open wooded area. Data were collected daily throughout the entire decay cycle on the various insect populations which frequented each cadaver. Analysis of the data shows that there is a direct correlation between the rate of decay and the activity of carrion insect families found in association with a decaying cadaver. Application of this entomological and decompositional information can contribute to a more accurate estimation of "time since death" of an individual.

Recommended Citation

Rodriguez, William C. III, "Insect Activity and Its Relationship to Decay Rates of Human Cadavers in East Tennessee. " Master's Thesis, University of Tennessee, 1982.
https://trace.tennessee.edu/utk_gradthes/4146