Which list correctly names the four stages of terrestrial decomposition?

• A. Fresh, bloat, putrefaction, putrid dry remains
• B. Fresh, putrefaction, bloat, mummification
• C. Bloat, Fresh, putrefaction, mummification
• D. Putrefaction, Fresh, mummification, bloat

Answer: (A)

These stages follow a predictable progression in terrestrial decomposition: Fresh, then Bloat, then Putrefaction, and finally Dry Remains. The correct option matches that order and ends with the meaningful final state of desiccated remains often described as dry remains. Fresh is the period of initial changes like autolysis with little visual decomposition. Bloat comes from gas buildup due to bacterial activity, causing swelling. Putrefaction is when tissues break down further and odors become strong as decomposition accelerates. Dry remains is the stage where soft tissues have largely disappeared, leaving desiccated remnants or bones. The other options mix up the sequence or replace the final stage with mummification, which is not the standard four-stage progression in this context.