Palinological Analysis of Coupled Sediment-Controle Samples: the Pollinic Taphonomi From the Middle Paleolithic Level M of Abric Romani (Capellades, Spain)

Abstract

The analysis of coupled coprolite and surrounding sediment samples from the archaeological level M (Middle Paleolithic) of the Abric Romaní rock shelter (north-eastern Spain) has proven an efficiency of palynological studies of coprolite samples. Although pollinic concentration in both coprolite and surrounding sediment samples is relatively low, the research provides reliable taphonomical and paleoenvironmental data. Thus, hyena dietary habits do not influence coprolite pollen spectrum. Reconstructed vegetation communities reflect unstable climatic conditions of MIS 3 and comprise variety of opened and closed vegetation communities. Based on non-pollen palynomorph analysis local environmental conditions are reconstructed.

Keywords

• paleoenvironment, pollen and non-pollen palynomorphs analysis, middle paleolithic, mis 3, abric romaní, pollen taphonomy