The ARRIVE guidelines 2.0: author checklist

This study investigated the impact of Flunitrazepam (Rohypnol) on insect colonization and decomposition patterns in a forensic context. The research hypothesis was that increasing concentrations of Flunitrazepam would reduce the abundance of insects attracted to decomposing remains and prolong the duration of decomposition stages, while not significantly altering the pattern of insect succession. To test this, four domestic pigs (Sus scrofa Linnaeus) were used—one as a control and three as experimental units receiving oral doses of Flunitrazepam at concentrations of 1 mg/250 ml, 2 mg/250 ml, and 3 mg/250 ml dissolved in vodka.
After euthanasia, the carcasses were placed in individual metal cages at the University of Nairobi’s Veterinary Farm, Upper Kabete, and left to decompose under natural conditions. Insect sampling was conducted over a 120-day period using aerial nets, pitfall traps, and forceps. Sampling frequency was three times daily for the first eight days, twice daily for the next eight days, and once daily thereafter until decomposition reached the dry remains stage. Samples included adult insects and maggots collected from the body surface, natural openings, and surrounding area. Maggots were either preserved in 75% ethanol or reared to adulthood for identification. Insects were identified using standard entomological keys and recorded by species and abundance.
The first dataset contains insect species occurrence, developmental stages, and temporal distribution across the five decomposition stages (fresh, bloated, active decay, advanced decay, and dry). The second dataset includes meteorological data—such as temperature and humidity—collected daily from the study site to provide context for environmental influences on decomposition and insect activity.
Key findings show that insect abundance decreased as Flunitrazepam concentration increased, but the composition and succession pattern of insect species remained consistent. Calliphoridae was the most dominant family across all carcasses. Decomposition was slower in Flunitrazepam-treated carcasses, indicating the drug’s potential to delay insect colonization or development. These data are useful for forensic scientists and entomologists investigating drug-related deaths, post-mortem interval estimation, and carrion ecology. Researchers can use this dataset to examine drug effects on decomposition dynamics, validate forensic models, and compare findings across different environmental or geographic contexts.