Preliminary Analysis of Prehistoric Dog Coprolite Samples from the American Bottom, Southwestern Illinois

Andrew Fortier

Research output: Contribution to conferenceOtherpeer-review

Abstract

Coprolites are fossilized feces that are rarely encountered in open-air archaeological contexts in the Midwest. Recent Excavations at the Janey B. Goode site in metropolitan East St. Louis have recovered just over 100 discrete, well-preserved, desiccated coprolite samples that date from A.D. 900-1000. Preliminary analysis indicates that these coprolites are from dogs. Analysis is ongoing and is aimed at reconstructing diet, health standards and the genetic make-up of this dog population. Macro-analysis has revealed the undigested remains of animal bone, teeth, fish scales, plant remains, sinew and hair. Future blood panels, and parasite/bacteria analyses will be conducted to determine levels of health and nutrition.
Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages94
StatePublished - 2010

Keywords

  • ISAS

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