THE IMPACT OF DAYLIGHT CYCLES ON HOW QUICKLY
DERMESTID BEETLES (DERMESTES FRISCHII) CONSUME CHICKEN

THE IMPACT OF DAYLIGHT CYCLES ON HOW QUICKLY
DERMESTID BEETLES (DERMESTES FRISCHII) CONSUME CHICKEN

Many insect behaviors are subjected to circadian rhythms impacted by light cycles. We wanted to know if Dermestid beetles, Dermestes frischii, will consume chicken faster in a nighttime environment, an all-day environment, or a 12-hour daylight cycle. This experiment could help further the understanding of dermestid beetle behaviors, as well as inform the field of forensic science in the impact of daylight cycles on decomposition at a crime scene. Beetles were given dehydrated chicken legs. After five weeks, changes in weights of remaining chicken were compared to determine the most effective cycle for beetle activity. We expected the most chicken consumption to occur with a 12-hour daylight cycle. However, there was no statistical difference in the rate of consumption between the experimental groups. This indicates that beetle consumption of desiccated human remains would be expected to occur at a consistent rate despite light exposure. This allows forensic scientists to accurately determine time of death based on the consistency of dermestid beetle consumption regardless of crime scene typology.

Kelsey Merriman

copy of copy of wilmington research poster version 1 (2).pdf

Repository Submission Date: 4/30/2023 5:53:00 PM
Poster Presentation Date: 5/4/2023

Amanda Rollins, PhD. (Biology - Wilmington College)

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