A comprehensive review of forensic diatomology: contemporary developments and future trajectories

Forensic diatomology is a rapidly progressing domain that involves the examination of microscopic algae known as diatoms for forensic purposes. Diatoms are microscopic, single-celled, eukaryotic algae that exist in diverse aquatic environments such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and oceans. They are characterized by their rigid cell wall made up of silica, which is a unique morphological character, making them useful for forensic investigations. Diatoms are a type of unicellular microscopic algae that belong to the class Bacillariophyta. They are one of the most common phytoplankton found in all aquatic environments, including marine and freshwater habitats. Diatoms have proven to be valuable evidence in various forensic investigations, particularly in cases involving drowning or bodies recovered from aquatic environments. This comprehensive review provides an in-depth analysis of the principles, methodologies, applications, and challenges associated with the field of forensic diatomology. It emphasizes the importance of diatoms as trace evidence and discusses their potential to establish critical associations between the victim and the surroundings. This review also explores some recent advancements in diatom analysis techniques, including molecular approaches and automated identification methods. Finally, the paper outlines future directions for research and underlines the necessity for standardized protocols and interdisciplinary collaborations to enhance the reliability and validity of forensic diatomology.