Which stage follows the Fresh Stage and precedes Active Decay?

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Multiple Choice

Which stage follows the Fresh Stage and precedes Active Decay?

Explanation:
Decomposition proceeds in a recognizable sequence. After the Fresh Stage, where autolysis and early microbial activity are ongoing, gas-producing bacteria cause the body to swell. That swelling is the Bloated Stage, which sits between the Fresh Stage and Active Decay. In this stage you’ll see abdominal distension, color changes, and a strong odor as tissues continue to break down, setting the stage for rapid soft-tissue loss in Active Decay. The Dry Stage comes later, after most soft tissue is gone.

Decomposition proceeds in a recognizable sequence. After the Fresh Stage, where autolysis and early microbial activity are ongoing, gas-producing bacteria cause the body to swell. That swelling is the Bloated Stage, which sits between the Fresh Stage and Active Decay. In this stage you’ll see abdominal distension, color changes, and a strong odor as tissues continue to break down, setting the stage for rapid soft-tissue loss in Active Decay. The Dry Stage comes later, after most soft tissue is gone.

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