Forensic entomology—the study of insects in legal investigations—plays a critical role in solving crimes by analyzing insect activity on corpses or crime scenes. Although it may seem like a modern science, its origins stretch back centuries, long before advanced laboratory techniques existed. Early Historical Beginnings The earliest recorded use of insects in criminal investigations dates to 13th-century China. The Chinese judge Song Ci described in his book The Washing Away of Wrongs how flies helped solve a murder case. When villagers presented their sickles, flies gathered around one blade that still carried invisible traces of blood, revealing the murderer. This incident is considered the first documented application of forensic entomology. Developments in Later Centuries The systematic study of insects in criminal cases emerged in the 18th and 19th centuries. Scientists began examining the life cycles of insects—especially blowflies—to understand their succession on decomposing bodies and how this information could help determine the postmortem interval (PMI). In the late 19th century, French scientist Jean Pierre Mégnin published groundbreaking work on insect succession, giving forensic entomology a scientific foundation. Scientific Advances in the 20th Century The 20th century marked a major shift as forensic entomology became integrated into modern criminal investigations. It was increasingly used to estimate time since death, determine whether a body had been moved, and detect drugs or toxins through insect analysis. Specialized laboratories and trained experts emerged, and courts began to accept entomological evidence as reliable scientific testimony. Contemporary Applications Today, forensic entomology is a sophisticated field supported by tools such as DNA analysis, molecular biology, and AI-based identification of insect species. These advancements have significantly increased the accuracy of time-of-death estimates and expanded the range of applications in forensic science. Modern forensic entomology is now recognized worldwide as a vital component of criminal investigations. Al-Mustaqbal University – the first university in Iraq.
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