Decomposition is the process by which dead organic substances are broken down into simpler organic or inorganic matter such as carbon dioxide, water, simple sugars and mineral salts. ... Animals, such as worms, also help decompose the organic materials. Organisms that do this are known as decomposers.

What happens when things decompose?

Decomposition is a complex process. Organic matter is broken down into carbon dioxide and the mineral forms of nutrients like nitrogen. It is also converted into fungi and bacteria through these organisms feeding on the organic material and reproducing.

What are the 5 stages of decomposition?

The five stages of decomposition—fresh (aka autolysis), bloat, active decay, advanced decay, and dry/skeletonized—have specific characteristics that are used to identify which stage the remains are in.