The Role of Honeybees in Forensic Evidence Detection:  Review of Their Application in Environmental and Criminal Investigations

Abstract

Honeybees (Apis mellifera) have emerged as a promising tool in forensic science because of their distinctive biological and behavioral characteristics.  This review investigates the role of honeybees in the detection of forensic evidence, emphasizing their use in criminal and environmental investigations.  Honeybees have exceptional olfactory abilities that can be utilized to identify a diverse array of substances, such as illegal drugs and explosives, through associative learning and conditioning techniques.  Furthermore, their sensitivity to ecological changes makes them effective bioindicators, capable of reflecting the levels of environmental health and contamination. The incorporation of honeybees into forensic entomology offers a unique method of ecological monitoring and crime scene analysis.  Nevertheless, to improve their efficacy in forensic applications, it is necessary to address obstacles such as ethical considerations, legal admissibility of evidence, and behavioral variability.  This review emphasizes the necessity of standardized methodologies and interdisciplinary collaboration to capitalize on the distinctive characteristics of honeybees in forensic science, thereby facilitating the development of innovative detection strategies and enhanced environmental monitoring.