Abstract :
This study underscores the forensic importance of diatom testing in drowning investigations, highlighting their ecological specificity and structural resilience as biomarkers. By correlating diatom presence in internal organs with environmental species profiles, it reinforces diagnostic criteria for distinguishing antemortem drowning characterized by active inhalation from postmortem submersion, where translocation is minimal. This paper reviews the multifaceted applications of diatoms in forensic science, including drowning diagnostics, trace evidence analysis, and environmental crime investigations. Techniques such as acid digestion, microscopic identification, and advanced molecular methods like DNA barcoding are examined for their efficacy in diatom detection and classification. Recent advancements, such as automated identification systems and interdisciplinary methodologies, are also discussed, showcasing the expanding role of diatom analysis in modern forensics. Comparative examination of diatom species found in victim tissues and aquatic environs allows for the localisation of drowning locations as well as the distinction between antemortem and postmortem submersion. Technological improvements, notably AI-driven categorisation and genetic diagnostics, have greatly increased species identification accuracy while reducing dependence on professional taxonomists. However, constraints exist in contamination control, database completeness, and procedure standardisation. Diatom-based forensic analysis presents unparalleled advantages in cases of aquatic deaths and environmental investigations. Despite challenges like contamination risks and limited reference databases, advancements in technology and standardization efforts hold promise for enhancing its reliability and accessibility.
Keyword :
Diatoms, Environmental evidence, Forensic science, Forensic biomarkers, Molecular techniques