What is the focus of forensic botany?

Forensic botany primarily focuses on the study of plant-based evidence. This area of forensic science examines various types of plant materials, such as leaves, seeds, pollen, and wood, which can be pivotal in criminal investigations. The presence, type, and condition of plant material can provide critical information regarding the time of year a crime was committed, the location of a crime scene, or even a suspect's movements.

For instance, different plants bloom at specific times of the year, and their presence in a particular location can help establish a timeline or geographic link to a crime. Additionally, plant material can help in linking suspects to crime scenes or determining whether a victim traveled through a specific area. This makes the study of plant-based evidence crucial in forensic investigations.

On the other hand, animal remains, soil samples, and documentation of crime scenes, while relevant to other branches of forensic science, do not specifically pertain to forensic botany, as they focus on different types of evidence and analyses.