Dietary effects on the development of Calliphora dubia and Chrysomya rufifacies (Diptera, Calliphoridae): implications for post-mortem interval estimation

This study examined the species-specific response to diet on the development of two forensically relevant blowfly, Calliphora dubia end Chrysomaya rufifacies (Diptere: Calliphoridae). Larvae of both species were reared on six commonly reported rearing media, under two temperature treatments, 24 •c and 30 •c, to establish an appropriate dietary standard for the generation of development data used in the estimation of post-mortem interval. A diet supporting rapid development and that best replicates the human cadaver is optimal. In the absence of human tissue, pork mince is the most appropriate surrogate while liver, regardless of origin species, should be avoided.