Palynology is the study of organic microfossils, which includes pollen, spores, marine microfossils, and other particulate organic matter.   Pollen studies are important components in the study and interpretation of both historic and prehistoric foodways, settlement-subsistence systems, land use practices, natural and anthropogenic landscapes, changing environmental conditions over time, and other topics.

Parasitology is the study of parasites and their relationship with their hosts. It is the analysis of coprolites, mummies, skeletons, and areas/soils where waste was deposited that relates directly to the sanitation and health of a population and therefore its success.  Parasitological analysis offers a way to examine the overall health of a resident population and to test whether or not they suffer from significant levels of parasitism and gives insight into historic and prehistoric foodways, water supply, waste disposal, and medical treatments.

Phytoliths (silica-based cell particles produced in living plants) are the most reliably preserved floral data available in archaeological research.  In cultural contexts, phytolith concentrations are often associated with plant food processing areas, garden plots, food residues on potsherds, locations of matting or thatch, vegetable tempering in pottery and adobe, and human and animal feces.  Phytolith analysis is particularly suited to the study of historical site landscapes and historical uses of flora.  Phytolith studies are effective in urban, rural, and natural contexts, and in individual residences, including yards and features such as flowerbeds, gardens, and trash disposal areas.

New South Associates can provide palynology, parasitology, or phytolith studies as a subcontract or proposal of work.  Having subsistence studies specialists on staff in addition and strong professional relationships with several sub consultants, we can provide clients with a high quality of service.

New South Associates' Archaeobotanist Leslie Raymer is at Site 9CK1 collecting a pollen sample from underneath a large pottery sherd. This work was conducted as part of a subcontract with Edward-Pittman Environmental, Inc.