What is the primary focus of entomology in forensic science?

The primary focus of entomology in forensic science is to examine insects and related arthropods. This branch of forensic science applies the knowledge of insect biology and ecology to legal investigations, particularly in determining the time of death in cases involving decomposing bodies. Insects are often some of the first organisms to arrive at a body after death, and their life cycles can provide crucial information about the postmortem interval. This makes entomology a vital tool in forensic investigations, aiding law enforcement in understanding the circumstances surrounding a crime scene.

While understanding human genetics, studying mammal behavior, and evaluating plant life can all play important roles in various fields of science, they do not fall under the purview of forensic entomology, which is specifically concerned with the role of insects and arthropods in the context of criminal investigations.