ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 5

Identification of a Red “Fiber”: Chironomid Larvae
Hawley, DA
Assistant professor and professor and director, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN

McShaffrey, DG
Graduate research assistant, graduate research assistant, and professor, Purdue University, IN

Pless, JE
Assistant professor and professor and director, Indiana University School of Medicine, IN

Haskell, NH
Graduate research assistant, graduate research assistant, and professor, Purdue University, IN

Williams, RE
Graduate research assistant, graduate research assistant, and professor, Purdue University, IN

(Received 27 May 1988; accepted 29 July 1988)

Abstract

During preliminary examination of the body of a homicide victim, a peculiar red “fiber” was noticed and recovered. Initially believing this to be a carpet fiber, the item was subjected to fiber analysis. It was found to be a short coiled particle not like any known natural or synthetic fabric fiber. Subsequent examinations determined this “fiber” to be the larva of a common freshwater midge (Diptera; Chironomidae).

Chironomid larvae have been observed on other bodies recovered from freshwater environments. Entomological studies of this organism have led to the conclusion that the presence of chironomid larvae indicates submersion of the body.

Keywords:
pathology and biology, entomology, insects, postmortem interval, decomposition, carrion insects

Paper ID: JFS12681J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12681J
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