In the context of forensic science, what indicates a body has progressed to advanced decay?

The presence of American carrion beetles indicates that a body has progressed to advanced decay. During the decomposition process, bodies go through several stages, starting with fresh and moving to bloat, active decay, and eventually advanced decay.

American carrion beetles are scavengers that feed on decomposing remains and are typically found in the latter stages of decomposition, when soft tissues have largely broken down and the body is more desiccated. Their arrival signals that decomposition is well-established and further along in the process, making them a key indicator of advanced decay.

In contrast, other choices may not fully represent advanced decay. For instance, the presence of beetles alone does not specify the level of decay, and a high number of blowflies is usually associated with the earlier stages of decomposition when soft tissue is still present. Dry skin and bones may indicate a later stage but could also be confused with even later stages, such as skeletal remains, without the specific context provided by the presence of carrion beetles.