[jussij]

The OP is just pointing out that the rotting matter is organic in nature, which means it is made from hydrocarbons and not carbon.

[TheSpiceIsLife]

I would have thought that was obvious from the context, fair point though.

Although I think carbohydrates is probably more accurate if we’re talking about decaying plant matter.

[ars]

Fatty acids are not carbohydrates, but are hydrocarbons.

Lignin is also not normally considered a carbohydrate.

[TheSpiceIsLife]

Ah yep, that's definitely true. Thanks for point that out.