Bacteria and fungi carry out the majority biological decomposition, or
"recycling" of organic molecules in dead organisms. Humans have a
dense microbial flora living on the skin, and in the gastrointestinal and
genitourinay systems. After death these organisms have free reign as
host defenses are no longer present to keep them in their place (a veritable
microbial smorgasbord..). However, their growth and metabolism require certain
conditions.
- Oxygen?: Aerobes, microbes requiring oxygen, cannot grow and
divide without it. However, after death, the host is anoxic due to the
lack of O2 transport in the blood. No O2 in space either..
- No oxygen?: Anaerobes represent the majority of organisms
that colonize host environments. They cannot grow in the presence of O2.
These guys carry out most biodecomposition reactions in normal environments.
- "Food source": Microbes need certain things to grow, a source of
carbon (sugars, e.g.), nitrogen (found in proteins), and
vitamins and minerals. Death provides the ultimate organic buffet
if you happen to be a bacterium. Host proteins, sugars, fats, vitamins and
minerals are suddenly there for the taking..
- "Growth conditions": All microbes have an ideal temperature for
growth - 37°C (98.6°F) is usually optimal for organisms colonizing
mammalian intestines. Pressure can also play a role, particularly in the vacuum
of space. The vacuum could possibly rupture cell membranes. However, the
temperature of space (
close to abolute zero) will keep the body from decomposing once the microbes
freeze.
I don't know how long it takes for a dead body to freeze in outer space
(not something I ponder regularly..). I'd guess significantly less than half an
hour provided there was no insulation to slow the loss of heat, something
more if the pour soul died in a space suit. You might be able to see some early
signs of decomposing, but I doubt there would be any significant buildup of
gases from anaerobic metabolism (H2, CO2, CH4 and others) or other
indications of long-term decay.
-L. Bry, MadSci Admin
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