Blowfly Life Cycle and Forensics

This video explores the life cycle of flies, particularly blowflies, and their relevance to forensic science. It discusses how the predictable progression of insect life stages on cadavers can help estimate the time of death. The video details the stages of blowfly metamorphosis, including egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages, and explains how temperature affects these stages. It also highlights the importance of identifying insect species and their development stages for accurate forensic analysis.

Why are insects, particularly flies, important in forensic science?

• They are a source of food for other animals.

• They are used to clean up crime scenes.

• They help determine the time of death.

• They can predict the weather.

What is the first stage of the blowfly life cycle?

• Egg stage

• Pupal stage

• Adult stage

• Larval stage

How long does it take for blowfly eggs to hatch into larvae?

• 1 week

• 12-24 hours

• 1-2 hours

• 3-4 days

What is the size of a blowfly larva in the first instar stage?

• 20 millimeters

• 10 millimeters

• 5 millimeters

• 15 millimeters

During which stage do blowfly larvae burrow into the soil?

• Egg stage

• First instar

• Pupal stage

• Adult stage

How does temperature affect the blowfly life cycle?

• It can either speed up or slow down the cycle.

• It slows down the cycle.

• It speeds up the cycle.

• It has no effect.

What is complete metamorphosis in insects?

• A cycle with four stages: egg, larva, pupa, adult.

• A cycle with three stages: egg, nymph, adult.

• A cycle with two stages: egg and adult.

• A cycle with no distinct stages.

Why is it important to identify the stage of insect development on a corpse?

• To determine the species of the insect.

• To estimate the time of death.

• To find out the cause of death.

• To identify the location of the crime.

Where are blowfly eggs typically laid on a corpse?

• Near natural body openings or wounds

• In the soil

• On the skin surface

• On the clothing

What is the significance of the adult stage in the blowfly life cycle?

• It is the least important stage.

• It is the longest stage.

• It occurs before the pupal stage.

• It is the most recognizable stage.