Archaeobiological

Archaeobiological refers to the interdisciplinary field that combines archaeological and biological methods to study past human and animal life, and their interactions with the environment. It involves the analysis of biological remains such as bones, teeth, plants, and animal tissues recovered from archaeological sites. The goal is to reconstruct past diets, health, migration patterns, genetic relationships, and environmental conditions, providing a more holistic understanding of past societies and their evolution. Techniques include ancient DNA analysis, isotope analysis, paleopathology, and zooarchaeology, all contributing to a rich tapestry of information about past life. This field bridges the gap between the humanities and sciences, offering insights that neither discipline could provide alone. The scope encompasses a wide range of organisms, including humans, domestic and wild animals, plants, and microorganisms. It is a constantly evolving discipline, incorporating new scientific advancements and refining research methodologies.

Archaeobiological meaning with examples

• The archaeobiological analysis of the skeletal remains revealed evidence of chronic malnutrition in the ancient population, suggesting challenging living conditions.
• Through archaeobiological studies, researchers were able to determine the plant species that formed the basis of the ancient civilization's agricultural practices and diet.
• archaeobiological techniques like ancient DNA analysis can help trace the migration routes of humans and animals across continents throughout history.
• The archaeobiological examination of faunal remains provided insights into the hunting practices and animal domestication processes of early human societies.
• An archaeobiological approach that integrated zooarchaeology, and isotopic analysis, allowed for a clearer picture of the relationship between humans and the environment.