Calliphorid flies are the first organisms of the faunal succession associated with decomposing bodies, and can help in the estimation of post-mortem interval. Therefore, studies on post-feeding larval dispersion are relevant to medico-criminal investigations. A circular arena simulating the natural environment was built in the laboratory in order to examine the radial post-feeding larval dispersion of Lucilia sericata (Meigen, 1826) and the relationship between weight, distance, and depth of burial. Our findings indicated that most pupae were recovered at a depth between 6 cm and 8 cm and at a distance of 33 cm and 45 cm from the center of the arena. No significant differences were found regarding the propagation and depth of males, females, and non-viable individuals. The mean weight of females (x = 32.35 mg) was higher than that of males (x = 30.28 mg). The correlation and regression analysis between weight and distance, and between weight and depth was directly proportional suggesting that heavier pupae dispersed farther and deeper. Our study also showed that a circular arena allows the dispersion of larvae into all directions.
Forensic entomology; blowflies; legal medicine