Data and codes from: Unveiling seral dynamics from spatiotemporal patterns of insect succession on carcasses

Each carcass weighed approximately 22.8 ± 0.4 kg (mean ± SEM; ranging from 20.6 to 24.9 kg). The carcasses were randomly assigned to either Block 1 or Block 2, and to one of six sub-sites within each block at Site B. Carcasses were visited daily in a predetermined random order.

First, the number of individuals by recognizable taxonomic units (RTU; species, genera, or family) was visually estimated for up to 5 minutes. The cage was removed, and flying insects were collected for up to 10 minutes using a handheld net, followed by another 10 minutes of collecting ground insects with forceps. To avoid potential effects on the taxonomic composition, collections were limited to specimens that could not be readily identified in the field.