1Zoological Survey of India, Western Regional Centre, Vidya Nagar, Sector- 29, P.C.N.T.(PO), Ravet Road, Akurdi, Pune411044, Maharashtra, India
2JSPM University, JSPMS Bhivarabai Sawant Institute, Gat No. 720, Nagar Road, Wagholi, Pune412207, Maharashtra, India
*Email: devarpanento@gmail.com (corresponding author)
Carrion decomposition is primarily driven by sarco-saprophagous insects, with blow flies and flesh flies typically initiating the process. However, ant interference can disrupt insect succession, affecting decomposition and forensic interpretations. In this study, we observed the impact of tropical fire ant, Solenopsis geminata (F) and East Indian Harvesting ant, Carebara diversa (Jerdon) on chicken carcase, specifically their predation on maggots of lesser house fly, Fannia canicularis (L), oriental latrine fly, Chrysomya megacephala (F) and hairy maggot blow fly, Chrysomya rufifacies (Macquart). Ant activity altered the expected insect colonization patterns, potentially leading to inaccurate post-mortem interval (PMI) estimations. Our findings highlight the need to consider ant presence in forensic investigations, as their behaviour can significantly influence decomposition dynamics.
Solenopsis geminata, Carebara diversa, Formicidae, Diptera, predation, forensic insects, maggots, competition, avian carrion, nutrient cycle
