Decomposition and Nutrient Cycling

Carrion

the remains of dead animals

Putrefaction

the proliferation of bacteria, from within the body, after death

benthic

relating to or living on or in the bottom of a body of water

autolysis

the destruction of cells or tissues by their own enzymes, especially those released by lysosomes

ephemeral

lasting for a very short time

necrophagous

feeding on dead or decaying animal flesh

C4 photosynthesis

use a two-step process in different cells to minimize photorespiration, making them more efficient in hot, sunny climates, and have higher water and nitrogen use efficiency

C3 photosynthesis

use a single pathway in their mesophyll cells, making them efficient in cool, wet conditions but susceptible to photorespiration in hot, dry ones