Protrusion of the tongue on this decomposing individual

Notice the protrusion of the tongue on this decomposing individual. The rate of decomposition depends on the temperature, ground conditions, amount of clothing, size of the body, etc. In decomposition, bacterial activity and tissue breakdown cause putrefaction, releasing gases like hydrogen sulfide and methane. These gases accumulate in soft tissues, including the tongue, leading to bloating. Fluid shifts due to autolysis and bacterial proliferation further contribute. The tongue, being vascular and exposed, swells significantly in early decomposition stages.