decomposition

  • four minutes after death
    1 CE

    four minutes after death

    A process called autolysis starts about 4 minutes after death. Autolysis is when digestive enzymes begin gnawing on themselves due to cells being deprived of their regular supply of nourishment.
  • within a few hours
    2

    within a few hours

    Rigor mortis begins after a few hours. Rigor mortis is a temporary stiffness caused by chemicals that allow muscle fibers to slide feely are metabolized.
  • within a few hours
    3

    within a few hours

    The bacteria begin eating the body. As the host's cells destruct from autolysis, their membrane rupture, the cells begin to fill into the tissue.
  • Over several days
    4

    Over several days

    Over several days, the brain will liquefy and lake from the ears and mouth. Blisters will form on the skin which evolve into large, peeling sheets.
  • by day 4 (or so)
    5

    by day 4 (or so)

    Rigor Mortis has receded and the skin takes on a green tint. The smell of decay is apparent and putrescence and cadaverine are swelling in the abdomen.
  • 10 day
    6

    10 day

    The bacteria-induced bloating becomes very noticeable.Many different insects crawl inside the body, and the internal organs dissolve. The body becomes mummified. Saponification occurs, which is natural soap buildup.