The Circle of Life: Your Necrobiome's Role in Recycling

Trillions of microorganisms, known as the necrobiome, live in and around our bodies and continue to thrive after we die. These symbiotic bacteria play a crucial role in decomposing our bodies, recycling nutrients, and supporting new life. When our bodies break down, the cellular breakdown products become food for these bacteria, especially gut bacteria like Clostridia. As our bodies decompose, our microbes are flushed into the soil, where they encounter a diverse microbial community. Research suggests that our host-associated microbes are not only alive in the soil but also cooperate with native soil microbes to enhance decomposition rates and nitrogen cycling. This microbial recycling process is essential for fueling biodiversity and supporting ecosystems.