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Sequential biomolecular, macrofossil, and microfossil extraction from coprolites for reconstructing past behavior and environments

Authors :
John C. Blong
Helen L. Whelton
Eline N. van Asperen
Ian D. Bull
Lisa-Marie Shillito
Source :
Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution, Vol 11 (2023)
Publication Year :
2023
Publisher :
Frontiers Media S.A., 2023.

Abstract

The study of macroscopic, microscopic, and biomolecular remains recovered from coprolites can provide a wide range of information on past human and animal behavior and environments. In earlier studies, research tended to focus on one or two proxies, but multiproxy approaches combining data from all remains within coprolites are becoming more common. Multiproxy analyses have demonstrated value for strengthening our understanding of the past and reducing equifinality. Here we present a sequential biomolecular, macrofossil, and microfossil extraction protocol that separates all different coprolite components and is intended as a best-practice guideline for coprolite analysis. We demonstrate the effectiveness of this method by applying it to an assemblage of coprolites from the Paisley Caves, Oregon, USA. By combining a wide range of proxies, this study provides important information on the taxonomy and behavior of organisms in the past as well as the paleoecological context of behavior.

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
2296701X
Volume :
11
Database :
Directory of Open Access Journals
Journal :
Frontiers in Ecology and Evolution
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
edsdoj.1eb0cd42fcf45efa058cd1f4b91e4c8
Document Type :
article
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.3389/fevo.2023.1131294