Forensic analysis of <i>Chrysomya megacephala</i> growth patterns for precise post-mortem interval estimation

The study investigates growth dynamics at critical stages of decomposition by Chrysomya megacephala - Fresh, Bolting, Decay, Actively Decay, and Dry. Meticulous variation in weight under environmental conditions during each stage could reflect distinct growth patterns influenced by temperature, humidity, and availability of substrates to improve the forensic accuracy of PMI estimation. Early larval stages such as Fresh and Bolting recorded moderate weight gain, but the peak feeding activity occurred at the Decay and Actively Decay stages where the weights stabilized due to decreased tissue availability. The existence of high weights during favorable conditions, especially a fresh weight of 10.485 mm on D13, emphasizes how environmental factors promote the rapid growth of larvae, particularly in nutrient-rich environments. Findings show that larvae of Chrysomya megacephala are sensitive to environmental changes, thus making their growth patterns very useful in forensic practices. In fact, this study further underpins the species as a strong candidate for being a useful indicator of PMI; because the growth stages tracked against specific conditions allow forensic investigators to make more precise calculations of PMI, presenting a more refined tool in the criminal investigation process.