Data and codes from: Unveiling seral dynamics from spatiotemporal patterns of insect succession on carcasses
Description
Twelve domestic pig carcasses (Sus scrofa domesticus) were used as experimental units and proxies for human cadavers. Each carcass weighed approximately 22.8 ± 0.4 kg (mean ± SEM; ranging from 20.6 to 24.9 kg). The carcasses were randomly assigned to either Block 1 or Block 2, and to one of six sub-sites within each block at Site B. Carcasses were visited daily in a predetermined random order. First, the number of individuals by recognizable taxonomic units (RTU; species, genera, or family) was visually estimated for up to 5 minutes. The cage was removed, and flying insects were collected for up to 10 minutes using a handheld net, followed by another 10 minutes of collecting ground insects with forceps. To avoid potential effects on the taxonomic composition, collections were limited to specimens that could not be readily identified in the field. Insect specimens were placed in vials containing 70% isopropanol. The decay stage of carcasses was determined daily using definitions from Michaud and Moreau (2009), namely fresh, bloated, active, advanced, and dry decay. All specimens were transported to the laboratory and identified using current identification keys.