The effect of intrinsic and extrinsic variables on the decomposition of small cadaveric remains in a temperate maritime climate in West-Europe.

The decomposition process of a body can be influenced by various intrinsic and extrinsic variables. While many intrinsic and extrinsic variables are known to affect decomposition, their specific effects under different climate conditions remain unclear. Gaining a better fundamental understanding of how these variables affect the decomposition rate contributes to better interpreting the taphonomic context, being able to more accurately estimate the post-mortem interval (PMI) in the future, and help prevent over- or underestimation of the PMI. Here we investigated the influence of weight (ranging from 800 to 2700 g and 4230 to 10,500 g), accumulated degree-days (ADD), sunlight hours, precipitation, humidity, and entomological activity (consisting of maggots, beetle larvae, and beetles) on the decomposition rate of small pig cadavers in a temperate maritime climate. The results of this research show that ADD was the largest influencing factor on the decomposition rate, followed by (in order of strength of influence) humidity, the presence of entomological activity, and weight class. Additionally, statistically significant interactions between variables were found, as well as seasonal differences and variations across decomposition phases. This confirms that decomposition is not influenced by a single factor, but rather by the combined effects of multiple variables and seasonal differences. These findings underscore the need for PMI models that incorporate these key factors rather than relying solely on TBS.