Contribution to the Knowledge of Flesh Flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae) Attracted to Baits of Decomposing Animal Tissue in Athens, Greece: Ecological Patterns with Potential Forensic Entomology Applications

The current study details the first species list of flesh flies (Diptera: Sarcophagidae), collected using carrion baited traps at three locations within Athens, Greece. The research aims to understand the local flesh fly fauna and discuss their potential use in forensic applications. Employing traps baited with beef liver, fish, and chicken stomach, the present study assessed the efficacy of these different bait types in attracting Sarcophagidae. The study elucidates species diversity, richness, species assemblage, abundance, and bait preference. A total of 1125 Sarcophaga spp. specimens were captured, of which 241 were males, representing 12 species. The predominant species were Sarcophaga africa (Wiedemann) and Sarcophaga melanura Meigen. Overall, among the identified males, beef liver attracted the highest number and greatest species diversity of flesh flies, followed by fish and finally chicken stomach. Identification of this insect group contributes to the discipline of Forensic Entomology in Greece by providing a comprehensive database of local flesh fly species associated with carrion that may provide information about the circumstances concerning the time since death (TSD) in crime scene investigations.