1. It comes to us all -- 2. A rich bag of goodies: The human body as a source of nutrients -- 3. Our life-long microbial companions: Who are they, and what do they get up to when we're alive? -- 4. Not a pretty picture: Our appearance after death -- 5. The great betrayal: Our own cells and our symbionts turn against us -- 6. From the micro to the macro: Now the big guys move in -- 7. And what about the rest of the big, wide world?: Corpse decomposition and the environment.
Summary:
Death is not an end its a new beginning. After death, all of the molecules that came together to form the living "you" become nutrients for millions of creatures, large and small. Your body becomes the hub of a complex ecosystem of microbes, insects, worms, plants and more. Cheer up! This book shows how you are going to live forever as components of so many other wonderful creatures. It describes the science behind the remarkable recycling of your body. We begin with lessons about how your body functions, is a collection of valuable nutrients and is a home to millions of microbes. The book goes on to describe the various stages the body passes through as it decomposes following death. The microbes and insects that make use of your tissues are then introduced. Finally, you will learn about the enduring effects that your body will have on the wider biosphere. We are rich in valuable resources that will end up feeding an immense number and variety of other creatures. Inevitably, your body will support the continuation of life on our beautiful planet this book describes how all this happens.
This resource is supported by the Institute of Museum and Library Services under the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act as administered by State Library of Iowa.