Description
Book SynopsisThe aim of the atlas is to provide images of taphonomic modifications, making it as comprehensive as possible with evidence presently available. This volume is intended both as a field guide for identifying taphonomic modifications in the field, and for use in the laboratory when collections of fossils are being analyzed. Images in the book are a combination of scanning electron micrographs, regular photographs, cross-sections of bones and line drawings and graphs. By providing good quality illustrations of taphonomic modifications, with links between similar types of modification, the atlas provides a reference source for identifying the agents responsible for the modifications, the processes by which they were formed, and the potential bias introduced by the processes.
The authors also aim to emphasize on the directions they consider taphonomic studies should be headed. Firstly, we should seek to quantify the degree of bias introduced into a fossil fauna and to take account of this bias before interpreting the palaeoecology of the fossil site. Secondly, we should recognize that taphonomic modifications increase the information encoded in fossils by identifying
perimortem and
postmortem contexts. This provides a more dynamic and realistic view of the past.
Trade Review“The Atlas of Taphonomic Identification is an excellent resource for identification of common taphonomic modifications to bone. The information in this book is addressed to a broad audience of archeologists, anthropologists, paleontologists and forensic scientists. … this book is an excellent resource for professionals and students of many different scientific specialties. … I would recommend this for anyone who might encounter taphonomic issues in vertebrate remains, or indeed anyone with an interest in the subject.” (Karen A. Koy, PRISCUM, The Newsletter of the Paleontological Society, Vol. 26 (1), May, 2021)
Table of ContentsIntroduction and Rationale.- Methods in Taphonomy.- Part I: Surface Modifications.- Linear Marks.- Pits and Perforations.- Discoloration and Staining.- Part II: Modifications Affecting Shape.- Abrasion and Rounding.- Part III: Modifications Penetrating Bone Tissue.- Flaking and Cracking.- Corrosion and Digestion Corrosion.- Part IV: Modification by Loss of Bone Tissue or Skeletal Elements.- Breakage and Deformation.- Disarticulation and Completeness.- Part V: Conclusions.- Why Taphonomy?.
