Method and Theory of Forensic Taphonomy Research

Estimating the postmortem interval (PMI) using accumulated degree-days (ADD) in a temperate region of South Africa

“…However, most of these descriptions are qualitative in nature; are based on personal opinions and experience; and are not applicable to all geographic and environmental conditions [1,7]. Additionally, many decomposition studies have been conducted in different seasons and climatic conditions using varying methodologies.…”

Organic staining on bone from exposure to wood and other plant materials

“…Other natural taphonomic agents, such as tree roots or subaerial weathering, can increase the destruction or dispersal of the remains (Nawrocki 1995;Ubelaker 1997). Each taphonomic agent that causes changes to the remains can hinder an investigation by disguising evidence necessary to resolve the case; however, the agents also can aid the investigation by supplying evidence about the environment of deposition (Calce and Rogers 2007;Haglund and Sorg 1997b;Nawrocki 2009;Pokines 2014).…”

“…Haglund and Sorg 1997b;Nawrocki 1995Nawrocki , 2009). Human influence can be seen by cutmarks on the bones as a result of dismemberment of the remains to ease disposal, or remains in an archaeological context can be damaged as a result of human interaction from excavation equipment (Byers 2011;Nawrocki 1995).…”

Identification of Characteristic Volatile Organic Compounds Released during the Decomposition Process of Human Remains and Analogues

“…Forensic taphonomy is a branch of forensic anthropology that aids in criminal investigations by reconstructing the events that occurred ante-, peri-, and post-mortem. This is done through the collection and analysis of data with regards to the environmental conditions in which the remains are located, determining if any perceived modifications to the remains occurred ante-, peri-, or postmortem, and estimating the time since death [15,16].…”

“…and "a system of laws," respectively, can be defined as "the study of postmortem processes which affect (1) the preservation, observation, or recovery of dead organisms, (2) the reconstruction of their biology or ecology, or (3) the reconstruction of the circumstances of their death" [14,15]. Forensic taphonomy is a branch of forensic anthropology that aids in criminal investigations by reconstructing the events that occurred ante-, peri-, and post-mortem.…”