Partial skeletonization

Skeletonization is the removal of tissues from the skeleton or bones. It may be complete where all soft tissues are removed or partial where only portions of bones are exposed. Skin, muscle, soft tissue and internal organs may lose before skeleton becomes disarticulated. The disarticulation usually proceeds from the head to downward (for e.g. mandible separates from the skull, skull separates from cervical spine). Similarly it also disarticulates from central to peripheral direction (for e.g. first there will be separation of spine then limbs). Bones may either converted into fossil or may dissolute with time. There occurs decalcification and dissolution. Presence of acidic soil or water hastens the process.