Moss as Forensic Evidence in Criminal Investigations

The police often use fingerprints, CCTV, and DNA to find criminals. A new study shows that moss is also used. Moss grows everywhere. These tiny plants can help in police investigations. The study is in the journal Forensic Sciences Research. Scientists looked at all the cases in which moss was used to help solve crimes.

Lead scientist Dr Matt von Konrat said: "We wanted to highlight the significance of botanical evidence because...investigators may be overlooking it." He added: "We're hoping that our study helps show how important these tiny plants can be."

The earliest reported case of moss helping the police was in 1929. Moss on a skeleton helped police know when a person had died. In 2013, scientists found moss on a man's shoes. This helped the police to find where the man's baby was buried.

Dr von Konrat found the baby's body. He said: "Based on the bits of moss, we knew what sort of micro-habitat we were looking for." The father was convicted of murder.

Forensic scientist Jenna Merkel said: "We aim to raise awareness of forensic botany." She wants the police to understand how moss can help them in their work.