Cadavers are an abundant source of organic matter. During their
decomposition, a variety of organisms – insects, bacteria, and fungi
– can feed on them. Within the ambit of forensic science, fungi have
thus far received little attention. Nevertheless, the current study
found that forensic mycology can be developed as a tool that
provides useful evidence for case resolution. The fungal biota found
growing on the surface of two cadavers with different post-mortem
intervals (PMI) was examined and identified. The fungal samples
were cultured and identified by morphology and molecular
genetics. Fungal species such as Arthrinium arundinis, Aspergillus
niger, Aspergillus terreus, Candida guillermondii, Candida lypolitica,
Cladosporium cladosporioides, Chrysosporium merdarium, and
Scopulariopsis brevicaulis were registered. These findings are the first
contributions to forensic mycology from Argentine research. In
combination with the joint investigations of forensic researchers
worldwide, these results should contribute in the discussion of the
use of mycology as a valid forensic tool in which fungi can provide
evidence in complex cases.