A question of scales: studying Neolithic subsistence using micro CT scanning of midden deposits

• Published in: Journal of archaeological science 2014-09, Vol.49, p.585-594
• Main Authors: Huisman, D.J., Ngan-Tillard, D., Tensen, M.A., Laarman, F.J., Raemaekers, D.C.M.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Coprolites; Europe; Fish bones; Microarchaeology; Micromorphology; Microstratigraphy; Neolithic; Neolithic and chalcolithic; North West Europe; Phytoliths; Prehistory and protohistory; Taphonomy
• ISSN: 0305-4403; 1095-9238
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jas.2014.05.006

We tested whether micro CT scanning could be used to study phytoliths and bone fragments on samples from a Middle Neolithic midden deposit from Swifterbant (The Netherlands). We scanned an untreated block sample, and an impregnated sample that was used to make a thin section of. Ample small bones or bone fragments could be discerned and identified – most of them from fish – although sieving showed that many went undetected. It was possible, however, to identify several deposition events within a few cm of stratigraphy, and distinguish deposits with cleaning refuse from bones that were discarded during or after meals. Bone fragments embedded in coprolitic material represented the ingested and excreted bone fragments. Moreover, it proved to be possible to identify articulated bones or bone fragments that would become separated and unidentifiable during sieving and to recognize specific decay patterns. Silica phytoliths could be discerned, but the resolution was not enough to use it for species identification. Overall, the greatest advantage of microCT scanning of undisturbed samples form archaeological sites seem to lie in non-destructively providing context and taphonomical information on which further sample treatment and analyses – including microsampling and micromorphology – can be based. [Display omitted] •Nondestructive Micro CT scans used to study Middle Neolithic midden deposits.•Unparalleled 3-D view on microstratigraphy and taphonomy.•Identification of small bones and fish scales to species level.•Valuable additional technique for microarchaeological study.•Not suitable as replacement for common archaeozoölogical or phytolith analyses.