Flies in Science and Forensics

Description:

Several flies, like Drosophila, are quite useful as model organisms and have been used in research for centuries. They have unravelled several mysteries in the areas of Genetics, Developmental and Evolutionary Biology, Cancer Biology, and more. Similarly, Chironomus species have also been used in cytogenetical studies. In addition, they are crop pests, disease vectors, possess stress tolerance, and are used for environmental monitoring. Sarcophagid flies are not only used in studies of polytene chromosomes but are also vectors of diseases. Besides these, several flies are helpful in solving death mysteries and are excellent tools for forensic investigations.

Existing books on flies either emphasise their Taxonomy and Distributional records or their role as vectors affecting humans and livestock. Therefore, it was decided to bring out a book exclusively devoted to flies, especially focusing on their role in Science and forensics. Features of this book:

* Each chapter begins with point-wise Learning Objectives

* Contains Conclusions at the end of each chapter

* Includes ‘Points to Remember’ sections for easy review

* Student and reader-friendly approach throughout

The present book starts with a chapter on the Introduction of Flies, followed by chapters on Drosophila as a model organism, its species and mutants, its role in biological science, as a tool to study human regenerative diseases, cytogenetic and evolutionary biology studies, and its inversion polymorphism. The book continues with chapters on Chironomus, exploring its diversity and role as a disease vector and for environmental impact assessment and monitoring. A chapter on sarcophagids highlights studies on Polytene chromosomes, followed by a chapter on the role of flies in crime investigations.

This book will be valuable to students of Entomology, researchers, and professionals in applied life sciences, as well as those involved in policy planning. Additionally, students preparing for competitive examinations and the general public will also benefit from this comprehensive work.