Insect colonization and succession on rat carcasses in Jammu and Kashmir, India during two seasons

A total of sixteen rat carcasses were used as an experimental model for studying insect succession by examining the impact of season on rate of decomposition and insect faunal diversity. Ambient temperature, relative humidity, faunal diversity, and decay rate were analysed. Results indicated that ambient temperature and relative humidity plays a crucial role in decay and affect insect diversity. Insect succession also occurs in a predictable manner which varied across season. Thirty four insect species from three orders and nine families were reported i.e., Calliphoridae, Muscidae, Phoridae, Sarcophagidae, Dermestidae, Histeridae, Scarabaeidae, Staphylinidae, and Formicidae. Diptera was found the most abundant order observed. Different environmental variables show effect on insect composition, abundance, and richness of species on carcasses. Summer season marked more assemblage of insect fauna as compared to winter.