Applications of species composition analysis of diatom (Bacillariophyceae) communities in forensic practice

Principle investigator: Jan Kaštovský
Funding provider: Ministry of the Interior - OPSEC
Grant No.: OPSEC VK01010069
Duration: 2023- 2025

Diatoms are widespread microscopic algae with specific frustules. Inhalation of water with diatoms causes them to pass into the bloodstream and deposit their frustules in the internal organs. Their presence reveals the fact of drowning in natural water, and the analysis of the species composition can also help to reveal the exact place where the drowning occurred. Similar analysis can be carried out on the clothing and skin of drowned persons. Diatom analysis (and analysis of other algae) is used in the Czech Republic and abroad in forensic practice, but only to a limited extent and does not exploit the full potential of these organisms. The main goal of the project is to design, test and implement new methods of sample treatment and species analysis of diatom communities ( or also communities of other algae).