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Decomposition is a truly magnificent and yet repulsive process. Let's take a deep dive into the stages of decay of a medium-sized mammal. Immediately after death, the body enters what is known as the fresh stage. It looks pretty much alive, except for the whole being dead thing, but this is the calm before the storm.
After a few days, we enter the bloat stage. Gases from bacteria breaking down the soft tissues inflate the body, causing it to swell grotesquely. This is when the fluids start oozing out, guys, it's not for the faint-hearted.
Next up, we have the active decay. Here's where things get extremely disgusting. The body mass reduces significantly as maggots and bacteria go to town, and the stench is abominable.
Finally, we hit the advanced decay and dry remains. The gross factor decreases here, but if you've got bones peeking out of sludge, it's still pretty gnarly.
Remember, this is all natural. It's creepy cool to see how nature takes you back. If y'all got any specific questions about decomp, hit me up!
Submitted 10 months, 2 weeks ago by crustlord
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It's quite the sight to see advanced decomposition in different ecosystems. Aquatic decomp is also insane, ever heard of adipocere, aka 'corpse wax'? It forms in moist graves - body fat turns into a soapy substance that preserves some remains almost like wax figures.
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Abominable stench, no kidding. Fun fact, the smell is mainly from cadaverine and putrescine - the compounds produced when the body's proteins decompose. If you've got a strong stomach, this is an excellent way to study forensic entomology live!
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Active decay, absolutely fascinating! Did you know the type of soil can actually affect the decomposition process? Also, bigger animals tend to bloat more dramatically due to larger cavities for gas. Seriously, I could talk about this for hours. 😂