The new CSI: Crime Scene Insects exhibition is making its world debut at the Science Museum of Minnesota.
Inspired by the popular CSI tv shows, the exhibit delves into the world of crime scene investigation and the role insects play.
Visitors will learn about insect anatomy, have the chance to build their own bugs, inspect preserved specimens, discover biological adaptations and insect behaviours, see examples of the equipment forensic entomologists use and hear the testimonies of expert witnesses via video footage.
As some of the subject matter is more mature, a translucent curtain separates the Crime Scene Area from the rest of the exhibit and the museum suggests parental guidance for this part. Here, visitors can explore the five stages of decomposition and the role insects play. Open morgue drawers contain medical models of cadavers and the insects which appear at different stages of decomposition. People can also observe two recreated crime scenes –where they can collect evidence, analyse it and try to draw conclusions about the nature of the crime.
Created by Exhibit Q, an exhibit design and development company in Long Beach, California, CSI: Crime Scene Insects runs at the Science Museum of Minnesota until 19 January 2004. It will then embark on a tour of science centres and museums around the world. Details: www.smm.org
