Loading...
Publication
Unraveling the mysteries of chrysomya albiceps (Diptera, Calliphoridae) : Morphology, potential distribution and forensic applications
| Name: | Description: | Size: | Format: | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4.89 MB | Adobe PDF |
Authors
Advisor(s)
Abstract(s)
Blowflies, specifically Chrysomya albiceps, hold significant importance in several fields, including forensics, sanitary, veterinary sciences, and ecology. Despite being a well-studied species, there are still knowledge gaps regarding the interplay between C. albiceps and temperature, its practical application in forensic entomology, and the analysis of anatomical ultrastructures. This thesis aims to bridge these gaps by investigating the relationship between temperature and morphology, temperature and distribution, and providing practical insights into the temperature-biology relationship and the description of two anatomical ultrastructures of C. albiceps for forensic purposes. To achieve these objectives, we employed geometric morphometry techniques, machine learning algorithms, estimatesinvolving species biology and its association with temperature (such as Accumulated Degree Days - ADD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The key findings can be summarized as follows: significant differences in wing shape exist between males and females, aiding in sex identification, and wing size exhibits a negative correlation with temperature. According to the model and the variables tested in this thesis, a substantial area of Europe is climatically suitable for C. albiceps. Among the variables examined, mean annual temperature and annual temperature range were found to be the best predictors of climatic suitability. Future projections indicate an increase in climate suitability due to temperature variations. The calculations involving ADD validate the potential use of C. albiceps as a forensic indicator in criminal investigations. SEM analysis revealed previously undocumented sensillae associated with the olfactory apparatus and a possible sexual dimorphism in the locomotor apparatus of C. albiceps. These findings underscore the abundance of unexplored possibilities for the study of C. albiceps. It is anticipated that these results would provide a theoretical foundation for future research endeavors, contributing to an enhanced understanding of the species for practical applications across various scientific domains.
Description
Keywords
temperatura Chrysomya albiceps morfologia Entomologia Forense distribuição geográfica potencial temperature Chrysomya albiceps morphology potential distribution Forensic Entomology