Journal Published Online: 01 July 1993
Volume 38, Issue 4

Observations of Differential Decomposition on Sun Exposed v. Shaded Pig Carrion in Coastal Washington State

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

The decomposition of two pig carcasses in close proximity to each other, one exposed and the other shaded, in a continuous woodland were observed and different rates of decay were recorded. The exposed pig decomposed much faster than the shaded pig, reaching a stable minimal weight two weeks before the shaded carcass. Bloat size, body weight, occurrence of blow fly larvae, and ambient air temperatures are compared. Maggot development appeared to be a major factor in the overall rate of decomposition and was affected primarily by different temperature patterns at the two sites.

Author Information

Shean, BS
Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
Messinger, L
University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
Papworth, M
The Evergreen State College, Olympia, WA
Pages: 12
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS13492J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13492J