What is one of the first visible changes in a body after death?

The green discoloration of a body after death is one of the first visible changes that can occur, particularly as a result of bacterial activity. This discoloration is typically associated with the breakdown of hemoglobin and the production of sulfhemoglobin, which can give the skin a greenish hue. It often begins in the lower abdomen and eventually spreads to other areas of the body, indicating the onset of decomposition.

This discoloration is an early indicator of decomposition and can help investigators determine the time frame of death. Other factors like environmental conditions also influence the rate at which this change occurs. Understanding this process is crucial for investigators when assessing time since death or analyzing the conditions surrounding an individual's passing.