From the Process of Decomposition to Public Health: A Comprehensive Examination of the Interplay and Far-reaching Ramifications for Societal Well-being and Natural Ecosystems

GIST 2023, a study examining Histeridae beetle succession on decomposing carcasses in terrestrial habitats of India (Punjab region), links abiotic factors (temperature, humidity, soil pH) to insect dynamics, m-PMI estimation, and public health implications via insect-vectored diseases.Core methodologyDecomposing animal carcasses (likely buffalo, consistent with related work) were observed in natural terrestrial sites to track Histeridae arrival, abundance (e.g., Saprinus sp., Atholus daldorffi), and diversity across stages: fresh, bloated, active decay (pH ~5.7, peak beetles preying on fly larvae), advanced decay, and remains. Environmental data included min/max temperature, relative humidity, carcass/beneath-carcass temperature, and soil pH (initially alkaline, acidifying to 5.7 in active decay).Sampling and analysis techniquesInsects were sampled during decomposition to quantify species abundance and succession patterns, plotted against decomposition stages and abiotic variables; higher temperature/humidity accelerated rates. A public health review catalogued blowfly (e.g., Chrysomya spp.) pathogens (E. coli, botulinum toxin, H5N1) vectored via carcasses. Carcass disposal methods reviewed: incineration, composting, rendering, anaerobic digestion, and alkaline hydrolysis.Ethical/legal notesThe study used naturally decaying carcasses at disposal sites (no purposeful killing implied); it was conducted under Panjab University affiliation with institutional support for field/lab work, adhering to forensic entomology norms