Archaeobiology [Paperback]

[Sobolik] offers what she believes to be the 'best and easist ways' to interpret archaeobiological remains, providing literature sources and diverse case studies largely, though not exclusively, drawn from projects she hsa worked on. This gives her readers an intimate portrait of the goals, processes, and results of projects. On this level, the book functions as a primer, which is its greatest strength.This easy-to-read text is part of the Archaeologist's ToolKit discussing archezoology, taphonomy, recovery techniques and analysis of archaeological materials.An introduction to the study of biological, osteological, and botanical remains on archaeological sites.Inclusion of botanical and zoological remains in archaeological analysis has dramatically increased since the advent of the New Archaeology. Yet most archaeologists have a limited knowledge of what archaeobiologists do and how their work can improve archaeological research and interpretation. In this handy volume, Kristin Sobolik outlines the major activities of archaeobiologists, the kinds of analyses they can provide to an archaeological project, and how biological specialists could and should be involved in project design and implementation. She also outlines factors that influence preservation of plant and animal remains and how project archaeologists should properly collect and analyze specimens. This brief work is an important guide for students starting in archaeobiology and for other archaeologists who use their work.