This pioneering research performed at the Abri du Maras (Ardèche, South-East France) explores the... more This pioneering research performed at the Abri du Maras (Ardèche, South-East France) explores the potential of non-pollen palynomorphs (NPP) to provide new insights into the relationships between Neanderthals and plant resources. Remains of endophytic fungi found during the analysis are key indicators of the local presence of plants, which could have potentially been used by Neanderthal groups. The recording of high concentrations of Chaetomium-type (HdV-7A) in archaeological contexts from localized areas within the shelter suggests the local presence of decayed plants near an in situ fireplace. This could point to the use of grasses or other types of plants from aquatic or marshy areas such as reed and rushes for a surface preparation (bedding?) near the fireplace. Our research has also applied for the first time a combined study of archaeological sediments and pollen washes of artefacts following a microspatial approach in the study of Middle Palaeolithic archaeological contexts. One artefact (1079), identified as a sidescrapper, provided positive results, with the recording of high concentrations of Diporotheca webbiae-type (HdV-143). We could identify the host plant of the fungal signature documented on the tool surface as alder roots by comparing archaeobotanical results with NPP analyses in modern surface samples. Following this, we have proposed the use of this Middle Palaeolithic sidescrapper for processing this plant by Neanderthal groups. Marsh and riparian ecosystems were thus attractive for Neanderthals occupying the Abri du Maras. This study clearly shows that NPP must be considered as key taphonomical, environmental and cultural indicators in archaeobotanical analyses. It also underlines the contribution of combined studies of archaeological sediments and pollen washes of artefacts following a microspatial approach to a better understanding of Middle Palaeolithic lithic tools and plant use relationships.
A multi-proxy palaeoecological investigation has been undertaken at high spatio-temporal resoluti... more A multi-proxy palaeoecological investigation has been undertaken at high spatio-temporal resolution in the Lower Auvergne Mountains (France). It allows us to investigate the Holocene trajectories of landscape evolution arising from the interplay between human impact and adaptability, climate oscillations and environmental evolution. The mechanistic models for the regional vegetation reconstruction applied here provide the first quantification of land cover changes in this region. The results obtained allow an improved understanding of past vegetation dynamics and a discussion of: (1) the natural variability of the vegetation to climate oscillations; (2) the development of the cultural landscape and the land uses involved; (3) the timing and the extent of the landscape openness; and (4) the richness in vegetation units within the landscape mosaic measured by the floristic diversity. These long-term changes highlight the sensitivity of these mountainous landscapes: having formed socioecosystems that have been shaped over millennia. It is therefore crucial to consider this ecological and cultural heritage when directing future sustainable management plans.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
La géologie du Creux de Soucy : un gouffre inexpliqué en milieu volcanique (Geology of Creux du Soucy: an unexplained pit in volcanic environment), 2015
This pioneering research performed at the Abri du Maras (Ardèche, South-East France) explores the... more This pioneering research performed at the Abri du Maras (Ardèche, South-East France) explores the potential of non-pollen palynomorphs (NPP) to provide new insights into the relationships between Neanderthals and plant resources. Remains of endophytic fungi found during the analysis are key indicators of the local presence of plants, which could have potentially been used by Neanderthal groups. The recording of high concentrations of Chaetomium-type (HdV-7A) in archaeological contexts from localized areas within the shelter suggests the local presence of decayed plants near an in situ fireplace. This could point to the use of grasses or other types of plants from aquatic or marshy areas such as reed and rushes for a surface preparation (bedding?) near the fireplace. Our research has also applied for the first time a combined study of archaeological sediments and pollen washes of artefacts following a microspatial approach in the study of Middle Palaeolithic archaeological contexts. One artefact (1079), identified as a sidescrapper, provided positive results, with the recording of high concentrations of Diporotheca webbiae-type (HdV-143). We could identify the host plant of the fungal signature documented on the tool surface as alder roots by comparing archaeobotanical results with NPP analyses in modern surface samples. Following this, we have proposed the use of this Middle Palaeolithic sidescrapper for processing this plant by Neanderthal groups. Marsh and riparian ecosystems were thus attractive for Neanderthals occupying the Abri du Maras. This study clearly shows that NPP must be considered as key taphonomical, environmental and cultural indicators in archaeobotanical analyses. It also underlines the contribution of combined studies of archaeological sediments and pollen washes of artefacts following a microspatial approach to a better understanding of Middle Palaeolithic lithic tools and plant use relationships.
A multi-proxy palaeoecological investigation has been undertaken at high spatio-temporal resoluti... more A multi-proxy palaeoecological investigation has been undertaken at high spatio-temporal resolution in the Lower Auvergne Mountains (France). It allows us to investigate the Holocene trajectories of landscape evolution arising from the interplay between human impact and adaptability, climate oscillations and environmental evolution. The mechanistic models for the regional vegetation reconstruction applied here provide the first quantification of land cover changes in this region. The results obtained allow an improved understanding of past vegetation dynamics and a discussion of: (1) the natural variability of the vegetation to climate oscillations; (2) the development of the cultural landscape and the land uses involved; (3) the timing and the extent of the landscape openness; and (4) the richness in vegetation units within the landscape mosaic measured by the floristic diversity. These long-term changes highlight the sensitivity of these mountainous landscapes: having formed socioecosystems that have been shaped over millennia. It is therefore crucial to consider this ecological and cultural heritage when directing future sustainable management plans.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
La géologie du Creux de Soucy : un gouffre inexpliqué en milieu volcanique (Geology of Creux du Soucy: an unexplained pit in volcanic environment), 2015
The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface ... more The “pollen washes” technique based on the analysis of the pollen embedded in the porous surface of archaeological artefacts was developed for investigating past plant usage and consumption and to characterize the functionality of artefacts related to plant processing, gathering and storage. The research presented resulted in relevant methodological improvements of this technique which was never applied on materials from European contexts. They allow: (1) a faster analysis of a broad series of artefacts or those with large use-surface areas likely to retain more pollen; (2) a more thorough, deeper and precise cleaning allowing the study of smoother artefacts. Finally, the recovery of Trifolium-group pollen from a macro-lithic tool from Xicotó rock shelter (Montsec ranges, Spain) demonstrates that the pollen washes technique can reveal new insights into both prehistoric societies' use and consumption of wild and domestic plants, and the functionality of archaeological objects whose interpretation is still problematic.
La gestion de l’environnement naturel et de l’espace géographique par les sociétés humaines const... more La gestion de l’environnement naturel et de l’espace géographique par les sociétés humaines constitue un thème de recherches particulièrement fédérateur aujourd’hui. C’est dans cette nouvelle problématique de reconstitution éco-historique des processus de l’anthropisation que s’inscrit l’étude géoarchéologique de
la tourbière de Peyre (Lacapelle-Barrès, Cantal) et la Prospection Thématique Pluriannuelle « Premières traces d’anthropisation et évolution des activités agro-pastorales révélées par l’analyse pollinique des zones humides corrélées aux données archéologiques : application au secteur géographique du sud du département du Cantal » (resp. : Y. Miras). Au regard des nombreux travaux archéologiques (Auvergne : Surmely, 1998 et 2003 ; Alpes françaises : Bintz, 1994 ; Alpes italiennes : Fedele, 1990…) et paléoenvironnementaux, la moyenne montagne, qui est
aujourd’hui en règle générale, un secteur géographique délaissé par l’économie moderne et en voie de désertification, était pourtant attractive dès l’époque préhistorique. Pour les périodes successives, il a même été possible de modéliser une dynamique des processus de l’anthropisation en termes d’emprises et de déprises agricoles (Massif pyrénéen : Galop, 1998 ; Jura : Gauthier, 2004 ; Richard, 2000…). En conséquence, ces travaux ont permis de mettre fin à la vieille idée qui faisait de la montagne un espace
clos, résiduel, en montrant que la montagne, loin de n’être qu’une barrière, est aussi un espace de transition et de contact. Elle apparaît donc comme une zone privilégiée et propice à l’étude de l’exploitation des potentialités offertes par les milieux naturels, de leur gestion par les différentes sociétés humaines au cours du temps et des actions de celles-ci sur les paléo-milieux et ce, à partir des données fournies par des recherches larges, spécialisées et pluridisciplinaires. Les actes de la table ronde de Pierrefort se situent à l’exacte croisée des chemins entre les sciences naturelles et les sciences sociales, puisqu’il s’agit de réfléchir sur l’étude des interactions entre les systèmes écologiques et les différentes sociétés humaines. L’apport de ces recherches est très vaste, mais ne doit pas bénéficier uniquement au seul progrès de la connaissance scientifique. Il apparaît, en effet, nécessaire d’examiner les possibilités de diffusion de ces résultats en terme de développement local d’une région de
moyenne montagne. Aussi, cette parution se propose de se situer également au carrefour des recherches universitaires et des politiques de valorisation (touristique, culturelle...) et de gestion de ces milieux, véritables patrimoines naturels.
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plant by Neanderthal groups. Marsh and riparian ecosystems were thus attractive for Neanderthals occupying the Abri du Maras. This study clearly shows that NPP must be considered as key taphonomical, environmental and cultural indicators in archaeobotanical analyses. It also underlines the contribution of combined studies of archaeological sediments and pollen washes of artefacts following a microspatial approach to a better understanding of Middle Palaeolithic lithic tools and plant use relationships.
landscape and the land uses involved; (3) the timing and the extent of the landscape openness; and (4) the richness in vegetation units within the landscape mosaic measured by the floristic diversity. These
long-term changes highlight the sensitivity of these mountainous landscapes: having formed socioecosystems that have been shaped over millennia. It is therefore crucial to consider this ecological and
cultural heritage when directing future sustainable management plans.
plant by Neanderthal groups. Marsh and riparian ecosystems were thus attractive for Neanderthals occupying the Abri du Maras. This study clearly shows that NPP must be considered as key taphonomical, environmental and cultural indicators in archaeobotanical analyses. It also underlines the contribution of combined studies of archaeological sediments and pollen washes of artefacts following a microspatial approach to a better understanding of Middle Palaeolithic lithic tools and plant use relationships.
landscape and the land uses involved; (3) the timing and the extent of the landscape openness; and (4) the richness in vegetation units within the landscape mosaic measured by the floristic diversity. These
long-term changes highlight the sensitivity of these mountainous landscapes: having formed socioecosystems that have been shaped over millennia. It is therefore crucial to consider this ecological and
cultural heritage when directing future sustainable management plans.
la tourbière de Peyre (Lacapelle-Barrès, Cantal) et la Prospection Thématique Pluriannuelle « Premières traces d’anthropisation et évolution des activités agro-pastorales révélées par l’analyse pollinique des zones humides corrélées aux données archéologiques : application au secteur géographique du sud du département du Cantal » (resp. : Y. Miras). Au regard des nombreux travaux archéologiques (Auvergne : Surmely, 1998 et 2003 ; Alpes françaises : Bintz, 1994 ; Alpes italiennes : Fedele, 1990…) et paléoenvironnementaux, la moyenne montagne, qui est
aujourd’hui en règle générale, un secteur géographique délaissé par l’économie moderne et en voie de désertification, était pourtant attractive dès l’époque préhistorique. Pour les périodes successives, il a même été possible de modéliser une dynamique des processus de l’anthropisation en termes d’emprises et de déprises agricoles (Massif pyrénéen : Galop, 1998 ; Jura : Gauthier, 2004 ; Richard, 2000…). En conséquence, ces travaux ont permis de mettre fin à la vieille idée qui faisait de la montagne un espace
clos, résiduel, en montrant que la montagne, loin de n’être qu’une barrière, est aussi un espace de transition et de contact. Elle apparaît donc comme une zone privilégiée et propice à l’étude de l’exploitation des potentialités offertes par les milieux naturels, de leur gestion par les différentes sociétés humaines au cours du temps et des actions de celles-ci sur les paléo-milieux et ce, à partir des données fournies par des recherches larges, spécialisées et pluridisciplinaires. Les actes de la table ronde de Pierrefort se situent à l’exacte croisée des chemins entre les sciences naturelles et les sciences sociales, puisqu’il s’agit de réfléchir sur l’étude des interactions entre les systèmes écologiques et les différentes sociétés humaines. L’apport de ces recherches est très vaste, mais ne doit pas bénéficier uniquement au seul progrès de la connaissance scientifique. Il apparaît, en effet, nécessaire d’examiner les possibilités de diffusion de ces résultats en terme de développement local d’une région de
moyenne montagne. Aussi, cette parution se propose de se situer également au carrefour des recherches universitaires et des politiques de valorisation (touristique, culturelle...) et de gestion de ces milieux, véritables patrimoines naturels.