Date of Award
12-2008
Degree Name
Master of Arts
Department
Anthropology
First Advisor
Dr. Robert Ulin
Second Advisor
Dr. Pamela Stone
Third Advisor
Dr. Gail Anderson
Fourth Advisor
Dr. Allen Zagarell
Access Setting
Masters Thesis-Open Access
Abstract
Forensic analysis of decomposing human remains in a submerged and contained aquatic environment is an area of research that lacks systematic evaluation and hinders the ability to accurately determine time since death/submersion. Expanding our understanding of how submersion and containment affects the known taphonomic agents pursuant to aquatic environments will contribute to the knowledge base on human decomposition in a multitude of environments.
In response to this limited knowledge base, this thesis reviews ten marine and air incidents occurring along the coast of British Columbia, Canada in which the bodies of eighteen individuals were recovered from inside the submerged wreckage of ships, aircrafts, and automobiles to ascertain if the microenvironment contained within the vessels alters known taphonomic agents. This thesis also looks at leaked fuel as a potential taphonomic agent that has been previously overlooked in the published literature. Although the information garnered here is limited, it will contribute to the discussion of human decomposition in a multitude of environments.
Recommended Citation
Sotkowy, Celene Aundrea, "Perils on the High Seas: The Effects of Submersion and Containment on Human Decomposition in Saltwater" (2008). Masters Theses. 3964.
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/masters_theses/3964