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Investigating the Potential of Fluorescent Fingerprint Powders as a Marker for Blow Fly Larvae (Diptera: Calliphoridae)
Author(s) -
Rosati Jennifer Y.,
Robinson Scott D.,
Devine Richard
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
journal of forensic sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.715
H-Index - 96
eISSN - 1556-4029
pISSN - 0022-1198
DOI - 10.1111/1556-4029.12710
Subject(s) - calliphoridae , larva , ingestion , forensic entomology , biology , pupa , myiasis , zoology , fluorescence , fly larvae , excitation wavelength , toxicology , ecology , biochemistry , physics , quantum mechanics
Four fluorescent fingerprint powders (RedWop ™ , GreenWop ™ , Basic Yellow ™ , and Yellow Powder ™ ) were evaluated as a marker for blow fly larvae. Administration methods included ingestion (high vs. low concentration) or topical. Ingestion of high concentrations of Basic Yellow ™ and RedWop ™ caused higher larval mortality. Basic Yellow ™ delayed development and adult emergence while RedWop ™ and Yellow Powder ™ had a significant effect on particular stages of development, however, emergence time was not altered. Optimal administration is through ingestion at low concentration levels (<10%) or topically, with GreenWop ™ demonstrating minimal adverse effects. Optimum wavelength for discrimination between powders was 450 nm. This research can aid in investigative training to increase visibility of larval and pupal blow flies. It can also be used in entomological studies to differentiate between larval blow flies (or other dipteran) species or individuals to further understand complex interactions and behavior during larval development.