A New Open-Access Method Applying GIS Techniques to the Study of Slicing, Scraping, and Tooth Marks

Abstract

The study of bone surface modifications (BSMs) offers a window into behaviors and subsistence strategies adopted by ancient hominins. Geospatial software have become valuable tools for BSM analysis, facilitating the spatial recording and visualization of these modifications. This study introduces an innovative and accessible workflow that leverages the power of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for BSM analysis while sidestepping the limitations of proprietary software. By employing Quantum GIS (QGIS) software, this approach democratizes the analytical process and expands its potential applications. This workflow was applied in an experimental study to record slicing, scraping, and tooth marks on Tasmanian wallaby tibiae. Subsequently, a comprehensive statistical analysis was performed using the open-access PAST software. The results yielded distinct spatial distribution patterns associated with the three types of BSMs. The key findings underscore that different butchery and consumption actions produce discernible spatial patterns on the bone surfaces, substantiated by nearest neighbor analyses. A critical aspect illuminated by the linear discriminant analysis was the variation in classification success rates. This nuanced perspective reveals that although certain BSMs exhibited consistently high classification success rates, others displayed varying success rates. This variation underscores the intricate nature of BSM interpretation and the need for a comprehensive analytical approach that integrates both spatial and morphological characteristics. In addition to its scientific contributions, this study also sheds light on practical considerations. The creation of bone templates for QGIS analysis was noted as a time-consuming task. However, this limitation could be mitigated by collaborative efforts to build a shared digital library of skeletal templates, transforming the workflow into a more streamlined process. In sum, this study not only presents an innovative method for slicing, scraping, and tooth mark analysis using open-access GIS but also emphasizes the method's potential applications and its role in advancing our understanding of past human behaviors.