Shell aragonite δ180 values of unionid freshwater mussels are applied as a proxy for past river discharges in the rivers Rhine and Meuse, using a set of nine shells from selected climatic intervals during the late Holocene. A single Meuse... more
Shell aragonite δ180 values of unionid freshwater mussels are applied as a proxy for past river discharges in the rivers Rhine and Meuse, using a set of nine shells from selected climatic intervals during the late Holocene. A single Meuse shell derives from the Subboreal and its δ180 values are similar to modern values. The Rhine specimens represent the Subboreal, the Roman Warm Period and the Medieval Warm Period (MWP). These shells also show averages and ranges of aragonite δ180 values similar to modern specimens. This indicates that environmental conditions such as Rhine river dynamics, Alpine meltwater input and drought severity during these intervals were similar to the 20th century. These shells do not record subtle centennial to millennial climatic variation due to their relatively short lifespan and the large inter-annual and intra-seasonal variation in environmental conditions. However, they are very suitable for studying seasonal to decadal scale climate variability. The t...
Summary After cellulose, chitin is the most widespread biopolymer in nature. Chitin and its derivatives have great economic value because of their biological activities and their industrial and biomedical applications. It can be extracted... more
Summary After cellulose, chitin is the most widespread biopolymer in nature. Chitin and its derivatives have great economic value because of their biological activities and their industrial and biomedical applications. It can be extracted from three sources, namely crustaceans, insects and microorganisms. However, the main commercial sources of chitin are shells of crustaceans such as shrimps, crabs, lobsters and krill that are supplied in large quantities by the shellfish processing industries. Extraction of chitin involves two steps, demineralisation and deproteinisation, which can be conducted by two methods, chemical or biological. The chemical method requires the use of acids and bases, while the biological method involves microorganisms. Although lactic acid bacteria are mainly applied, other microbial species including proteolytic bacteria have also been successfully implemented, as well as mixed cultures involving lactic acid-producing bacteria and proteolytic microorganisms...
The growth rate of abalone post larvae of Haliotis rufescens fed ad libitum with a benthic monoalgal diatom culture maintained as monocultures on a semi-commercial scale, was evaluated and correlated with the biochemical composition of... more
The growth rate of abalone post larvae of Haliotis rufescens fed ad libitum with a benthic monoalgal diatom culture maintained as monocultures on a semi-commercial scale, was evaluated and correlated with the biochemical composition of the diatoms. The cell size (7.0 × 4.0 µm to 21.0 × 7.5 µm), protein percentage (7.42% to 13.66%), and ash content (49.03% to 59.61%) were different among diatom strains; lipid percentage, nitrogen free extract, and energy content (Kcal g−1) were similar among diatom strains. The values of essential and non-essential amino and fatty acids composition differed among diatom strains. Differences in the abalone shell length and orthogonal analyses revealed postlarval growth was dependent on the quality of the food source. Postlarvae abalone displaying the longest shell lengths were fed Nitzschia thermalis var. minor and Amphiprora paludosa var. hyalina (1,712.0 ± 61 µm and 1,709 ± 67 µm, respectively), followed by Navicula incerta (1,413.3 ± 43 µm). The fatty acid content of benthic diatoms and abalone growth rate were not correlated.
We present the first analysis of population structure and cohort distribution in a fossil oyster shell bed based on 1121 shells of the giant oyster Crassostrea gryphoides (von Schlotheim, 1813). Data derive from terrestrial laser scanning... more
We present the first analysis of population structure and cohort distribution in a fossil oyster shell bed based on 1121 shells of the giant oyster Crassostrea gryphoides (von Schlotheim, 1813). Data derive from terrestrial laser scanning of a Lower Miocene shell bed covering 459 m 2. Within two transects, individual shells were manually outlined on a digital surface model and cross-checked based on high-resolution orthophotos, resulting in accurate information on center line length and area of exposed shell surface. A growth model was calculated, revealing this species as the fastest growing and largest Crassostrea known so far. Non-normal distribution of size, area and age data hints at the presence of at least four distinct recruitment cohorts. The rapid decline of frequency amplitudes with age is interpreted to be a function of mortality and shell loss. The calculated shell half-lives range around a few years, indicating that oyster reefs were geologically short-lived structures, which could have been fully degraded on a decadal scale. Crassostrea gryphoides reefs were widespread and common along the Miocene circum-Tethyan coasts. Given its enormous growth performance of ∼ 150 g carbonate per year this species has been an important carbonate producer in es-tuarine settings. Yet, the rapid shell loss impeded the formation of stable structures comparable to coral reefs.
In this paper, the new approach of constructal theory has been employed to design shell and tube heat exchangers. Constructal theory is a new method for optimal design in engineering applications. The purpose of this paper is optimization... more
In this paper, the new approach of constructal theory has been employed to design shell and tube heat exchangers. Constructal theory is a new method for optimal design in engineering applications. The purpose of this paper is optimization of shell and tube heat exchangers by reduction of total cost of the exchanger using the constructal theory. The total cost of the heat exchanger is the sum of operational costs and capital costs. The overall heat transfer coefficient of the shell and tube heat exchanger is increased by the use of constructal theory. Therefore, the capital cost required for making the heat transfer surface is reduced. Moreover, the operational energy costs involving pumping in order to overcome frictional pressure loss are minimized in this method. Genetic algorithm is used to optimize the objective function which is a mathematical model for the cost of the shell and tube heat exchanger and is based on constructal theory. The results of this research represent more than 50% reduction in costs of the heat exchanger.► In this paper, constructal theory has been employed to optimization of shell and tube heat exchangers. ► Heat exchangers optimized by reduction of total cost using Constructal theory. ► The overall heat transfer coefficient of the heat exchanger is increased. ► Genetic algorithm is used to optimize the objective function. ► The results of this research represent more than 50% reduction in cost.
The opening chapter of Conchophilia. Shells, Art, and Curiosity in Early Modern Europe (Princeton University Press, 2021). Addresses the labor that enabled the collection of exotic shells in the Netherlands and Europe more generally, and... more
The opening chapter of Conchophilia. Shells, Art, and Curiosity in Early Modern Europe (Princeton University Press, 2021). Addresses the labor that enabled the collection of exotic shells in the Netherlands and Europe more generally, and focuses on the work of Georg Eberhard Rumphius.
Two manuscripts logbooks written by Midshipman William Henry Webster were donated to the Auckland Public Library by Council employee Mrs Seymour in 1943. What was the connection?
Objective: The study aimed to compare the calcium content of the shells of oyster (Crassostrea echinata), green shell (Perna viridis), Capiz shell (Placuna placenta), and Nylon shell (Callista erycina) from Panay Island, Philippines.... more
Objective: The study aimed to compare the calcium content of the shells of oyster (Crassostrea echinata), green shell (Perna viridis), Capiz shell (Placuna placenta), and Nylon shell (Callista erycina) from Panay Island, Philippines. Methodology: Calcium content of the four shells was determined using potassium permanganate titration and atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS). Results: There was no significant difference (p = >5) on the calcium content of the oyster shell, the green shell, the Capiz shell, and the Nylon shell. Also, there was no significant difference (p = >5) between the two methods used in determining their calcium content. Conclusion: Among the four shells, the Nylon shell showed the highest calcium content in both potassium permanganate titration and AAS. Also, the extraction of calcium content does not vary as to what method was used. This study can be utilized as a reference in formulating calcium-related drug products.
Relevant physical properties of Palm Kernels and shells were determined as a basis for designing a palm kernel and shell separator. The physical properties determined were the characteristic dimensions, moisture content (wet... more
Relevant physical properties of Palm Kernels and shells were determined as a basis for designing a palm kernel and shell separator. The physical properties determined were the characteristic dimensions, moisture content (wet basis), bulk density, specific gravity and angle of repose. The shells were found to have distinctive size distribution pattern from the kernels as identified through sieve analysis. The kernels have tendency of being spherical, with sphericity of 0.8 while the shells have a sphericity of 0.6
which makes them hemispherical. These distinctive shapes are characteristics that can be utilized in the mechanical separation of kernels from the shells.
The first annual "In Centro" conference was held by the Central Region of Israel Antiquities Authority, the Department of Archaeology and Near Eastern Cultures and the Sonia and Marco Nadler Institute of Archaeology of Tel Aviv University... more
The first annual "In Centro" conference was held by the Central Region of Israel Antiquities Authority, the Department of Archaeology and Near Eastern Cultures and the Sonia and Marco Nadler Institute of Archaeology of Tel Aviv University on April 26, 2018 at Tel Aviv University. It was dedicated to the theme of the "Triple M - Motion, Movement and Mobility," with contribution discussing aspects of movement of humans and animals, as well as of artifacts, in space and time, against the backdrop of a fundamental comprehension of change as movement in time. This volume consists of eleven papers in English and five in Hebrew
Mollusc shells have been used for the production of ornaments since the Palaeolithic times. Some of the world's oldest decorative items were, in fact, made from shells. Their smooth surfaces, durability and bright colours, were some of... more
Mollusc shells have been used for the production of ornaments since the Palaeolithic times. Some of the world's oldest decorative items were, in fact, made from shells. Their smooth surfaces, durability and bright colours, were some of the reasons why they were aesthetically attractive to numerous prehistoric communities. Ornaments made from shell often had symbolic value-they were used to display status, prestige, belonging to a group, and may be used as indicators for trade and exchange routes. However, although they were in use in the prehistoric period, they have received less attention from researchers studying periods after the Neolithic. This paper will provide an overview on the use of shells for ornaments in the Bronze Age Maros culture in the southern Carpathian basin. They have so far been analysed only within the context of burial equipment and their relation to other jewellery items, mainly metal objects. However, they may provide an additional insight into some of the symbolic aspects, cultural attitudes towards certain raw materials, as well some aspects of trade and exchange.
В статье рассматривается развитие строительной инженерии в России в контексте общеевропейского процесса модернизации науки и техники второй половины XIX в. На примере развития типологий арочных стропильных систем и пространственных... more
В статье рассматривается развитие строительной инженерии в России в контексте общеевропейского процесса модернизации науки и техники второй половины XIX в. На примере развития типологий арочных стропильных систем и пространственных покрытий прослеживается переход от отдельных инженерных инноваций 1840-х гг. и широкого использования общеевропейских конструктивных систем в 1860-х гг. к разработке новых типов конструкций, применявшихся в 1890-е гг. исключительно в российской строительной практике. При этом достижения русской инженерной школы последнего десятилетия XIX в. предлагается рассматривать как закономерный результат развития инженерного образования, теории и практики строительства в России в течение всего столетия.
Due to some technical issues that can appear during the manufacturing process of Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs), it can be extremely difficult to produce perfect materials. Indeed, one of the biggest problems is the presence of... more
Due to some technical issues that can appear during the manufacturing process of Functionally Graded Materials (FGMs), it can be extremely difficult to produce perfect materials. Indeed, one of the biggest problems is the presence of porosities. For this purpose, the vibrational behavior of doubly-curved shells made of FGM including porosities is investigated in this paper. With respect to previous research, the porosity has been added to the mechanical model that characterizes the through-the-thickness distribution of the graded constituents and applied to doubly-curved shell structures. Few papers have been published on this topic. In fact, it is easier to find works related to one-dimensional structures and beam models that take account the effect of porosities. The First-order Shear Deformation Theory (FSDT) is considered as the theoretical framework. In addition, the mechanical properties of the constituents vary along the thickness direction. For this purpose, two power-law distributions are employed to characterize their volume fraction. Strain components are established in an orthogonal curvilinear coordinate system and the governing equations are derived according to the Hamilton's principle. Finally, Navier's solution method is used and the numerical results concerning three different types of shell structures are presented.
The folding of thin shells around localized lines occurs in several situations of engineering interest, such as in buckling induced deformation, as the consequence of crash, in industrial processes like metal forming, in the deployment of... more
The folding of thin shells around localized lines occurs in several situations of engineering interest, such as in buckling induced deformation, as the consequence of crash, in industrial processes like metal forming, in the deployment of folded membranes , in packaging related processes. In this paper an interface element, allowing for displacement and rotation discontinuities, to be placed between two adjacent 4-node Mindlin-Reissner shell finite elements, is developed for a computationally effective simulation of this type of localized deformation. The large displacement and rotation kinematics of the interface element is discussed, arriving at a rigid-rotation free element tangent stiffness matrix. An adaptive dynamic relaxation scheme is proposed for the evolutionary analysis of the quasi-static structural response. To test the element formulation, a simple coupled membrane-bending elastoplastic behavior is assumed. The element is used for the simulation of few examples taken from the literature, where the structural response is characterized by the formation of plastic hinges, exhibiting good accuracy and computational effectiveness.
The Griffin Warrior Ring No. 2 is a gold Minoan-style engraved signet ring from Pylos dating to the Late Helladic IIA (1580–1490 BCE). The ring’s bezel depicts a seascape with a columnar tree shrine flanked by palm trees situated on a... more
The Griffin Warrior Ring No. 2 is a gold Minoan-style engraved signet ring from Pylos dating to the Late Helladic IIA (1580–1490 BCE). The ring’s bezel depicts a seascape with a columnar tree shrine flanked by palm trees situated on a rocky outcrop. Five elaborately dressed female figures stand on either side of the shrine. The tree shrine features a net pattern in the space between its stone or brick piers. It is proposed that this represents a fishing net and that the structure is a sea altar dedicated to an unnamed Minoan tree goddess. The ring’s hoop is decorated with cockle shells, further emphasising its marine theme. It will be argued that the iconography alludes to marine food resources, practical and luxury textile fibres, sea trade, transculturality and cult, and is testament to the importance of the sea in the Aegean Bronze Age.
This paper deals with the analysis of active control of vibration of thin laminated composite truncated circular conical shells using vertically and obliquely reinforced 1-3 piezoelectric composite (PZC) materials as the constraining... more
This paper deals with the analysis of active control of vibration of thin laminated composite truncated circular conical shells using vertically and obliquely reinforced 1-3 piezoelectric composite (PZC) materials as the constraining layer of the active constrained layer damping (ACLD) treatment. A finite element model of smart truncated conical laminated shells integrated with the patches of such ACLD treatment has been developed to demonstrate the performance of these patches on enhancing the damping characteristics of thin symmetric and antisymmetric cross-ply and antisymmetric angle-ply laminated truncated conical shells. Velocity feedback control loop has been implemented to activate the patches. The effect of variation of semi-cone angle on the performance of the patches for controlling first few modes of the truncated conical laminated shells has been demonstrated. Emphasis has also been placed on exploring the effect of variation of piezoelectric fiber orientation angle in the constraining layer on the control authority of the ACLD patches.
In this paper, we take into exam six different contexts in Roman Aquileia in which considerable amounts of shells, originally collected for different purposes (dietary consumption or purple dye production), were re-used as raw material in... more
In this paper, we take into exam six different contexts in Roman Aquileia in which considerable amounts of shells, originally collected for different purposes (dietary consumption or purple dye production), were re-used as raw material in building activities, either inserted in mortars or used as floor foundation. Shells as building material have useful properties, which are here analyzed. Themes such as technological transmission among cultures are discussed through the examination of other attestations of these practices in the ancient Mediterranean.
Watch the presentation live at http://www.livemedia.gr/video/33050 The aim of the present paper is to survey the evidence from the study of marine and land molluscan remains of the Neolithic and Bronze Age sites in central... more
The aim of the present paper is to survey the evidence from the study of marine and land molluscan remains of the Neolithic and Bronze Age sites in central Macedonia, Greece. After the description of materials and methods, the paper investigates the relationship between the natural and cultural environment and discusses the evidence on molluscan gathering and food consumption practices, refuse patterns, as well as the production and consumption of shell artefacts and other raw materials, such as purple dye. The discussion of these subjects in different analytical scales and the synthetic approach of the evidence reveal a complex picture, which questions the existing views and adds important data in the understanding and interpretation of the way of life in central Macedonia during Prehistory.
The aim of the paper is to discuss molluscan exploitation and consumption practices in Central Greek Macedonia during the Neolithic and Bronze Age (6700/6500-1000 BCE). New and old data from the analysis of molluscan remains in sixteen... more
The aim of the paper is to discuss molluscan exploitation and consumption practices in Central Greek Macedonia during the Neolithic and Bronze Age (6700/6500-1000 BCE). New and old data from the analysis of molluscan remains in sixteen sites located around the former Thermaic Gulf are evaluated under the light of recent chrono-stratigraphical and environmental evidence from the area in association with the cultural profile of each site. The biographical approach applied to the current study explored interesting issues related to the methods and character of exploitation, as well as the choices and modes of consumption of molluscs and shells. Factors associated with micro-environmental conditions but also with cultural and social choices have been equally considered in order to interpret the differentiated life cycle of shells in the prehistoric communities of the case study area. The combined contextual analysis of finds and different type of artefacts in various settlement deposits through time enhances our understanding of the dynamic interaction between prehistoric communities and the aquatic environment and provides a great potential to the discussion of food and aspects of material culture consumption practices in Central Greek Macedonia.
Η εργασία παρουσιάζει τις αρχαιολογικές εκείνες ενδείξεις που μαρτυρούν τη βρώση των θαλασσινών μαλακίων στον πρωτομινωικό οικισμό της Τρυπητής στη Νότια Κρήτη. Αντικείμενό της αποτελούν τα στοιχεία που προέκυψαν από την μελέτη και... more
Η εργασία παρουσιάζει τις αρχαιολογικές εκείνες ενδείξεις που μαρτυρούν τη βρώση των θαλασσινών μαλακίων στον πρωτομινωικό οικισμό της Τρυπητής στη Νότια Κρήτη. Αντικείμενό της αποτελούν τα στοιχεία που προέκυψαν από την μελέτη και ανάλυση του οστρεοαρχαιολογικού υλικού σε συνδυασμό με τη μελέτη της χωρικής κατανομής και του πλαισίου εύρεσης των οστρέων. Αρχικά σκιαγραφείται η διαδικασία κατανάλωσης των μαλακίων, από τη συλλογή, την προετοιμασία και την κατανάλωση της τροφής έως την απόρριψη των διατροφικών απορριμμάτων. Η εξέταση του υλικού με άξονα τη συνάφεια εύρεσης των οστρέων διαμορφώνει το πλαίσιο για τη διερεύνηση ειδικότερων και γενικότερων θεμάτων, όπως ο ρόλος των μαλακίων στη διατροφή, το πλαίσιο κατανάλωσης της τροφής, η οικονομική και κοινωνική οργάνωση της κοινότητας. Τέλος, εξετάζεται ένα σύνολο οστρεοαρχαιολογικών μελετών προκειμένου να διατυπωθούν κάποιες ερμηνευτικές προτάσεις για το θέμα της οργάνωσης της κατανάλωσης των μαλακίων κατά την Πρώιμη Εποχή Χαλκού στον αιγαιακό χώρο.
The research aims to investigate the architectural uses of free-form panels made of natural stone, reinforced through the use of carbon fiber (or glass fiber) sheets on the back, in order to build lightweight shells in granite or marble.... more
The research aims to investigate the architectural uses of free-form panels made of natural stone, reinforced through the use of carbon fiber (or glass fiber) sheets on the back, in order to build lightweight shells in granite or marble. The combination of these two materials allows reducing the thickness of the stone components up to few millimetres and the achievement of a great structural performance. The project is a collaboration between the authors (from Polytechnic University of Bari) and the Ticino-based company, Generelli SA.
Activated carbon materials were prepared from the Brazilian pine-fruit shell (Araucaria angustifolia) by chemically activated carbon (CAC) and chemically and physically activated carbon (CPAC), and tested as adsorbents for the removal of... more
Activated carbon materials were prepared from the Brazilian pine-fruit shell (Araucaria angustifolia) by chemically activated carbon (CAC) and chemically and physically activated carbon (CPAC), and tested as adsorbents for the removal of brilliant green (BG) dye from aqueous effluents. The mixed activation process leads to increases in the specific surface area, average porous volume, and average porous diameter of the adsorbent CPAC when compared to CAC. The effects of shaking time, adsorbent dosage and pH on the adsorption capacity were studied. BG uptake was favorable at pH values ranging from 2.0 to 10.0 for both CAC and CPAC. The contact time required to obtain the equilibrium using CAC and CPAC as adsorbents was 4 h at 298 K, respectively. The fractionary-order kinetic model provided the best fit to experimental data compared with other models. Equilibrium data were better fit to the Sips and Redlich-Peterson isotherm models using CAC and CPAC as adsorbents. The enthalpy and entropy of adsorption of BG were obtained from adsorption experiments ranging from 298 to 323 K.
The archaeomalacological assemblage from the Neolithic Dispilio, Kastoria, consists of a large amount of freshwater shells and land snails. The systematic and thorough study comprised species identification, ecological and quantitative... more
The archaeomalacological assemblage from the Neolithic Dispilio, Kastoria, consists of a large amount of freshwater shells and land snails. The systematic and thorough study comprised species identification, ecological and quantitative reconstruction in time and space, as well as gathering methods, quantities and sizes of shells, methods of preparation, consumption and discard. The unique richness and amount of land snails and freshwater shells that penetrated the archaeological record either by chance or due to human activities offered a large body of information for the understanding of depositional formation processes and the reconstruction of the human ecological setting in each building phase. At the same time, the large amount of freshwater mussels (Unio sp.) provided a unique opportunity in Greek prehistory to have a clear insight as regards molluscan consumption in a Neolithic community living by the lake. Molluscs were gathered in shallow water with simple tools and minimal effort. They were consumed cooked (boiled, steamed or roasted), but in varying degrees throughout the life of the settlement. Regardless of the rich lake environment, molluscs must have been just a complementary food source.
The use and the importance of dye is attested as early as the Geometric period, and there is important evidence that the production of purple dye dates from the Middle Minoan period. Nonetheless, the archaeological data from many... more
The use and the importance of dye is attested as early as the Geometric period, and there is important evidence that the production of purple dye dates from the Middle Minoan period. Nonetheless, the archaeological data from many prehistoric settlements are relatively obscure. The discovery of a small quantity of murex shells is frequently interpreted as evidence that the molluscs were used as food, as it was believed until recently that huge quantities of them, together with specially equipped workshops were required to produce even a small amount of dye. However, modern research has shown that dye production is feasible with just a few shells and that originally it was probably a domestic activity carried our without special equipment or facilities. This study focuses on the archaeological evidence of purple-dye production in the settlement on the Thessaloniki tell. The data come from an analysis of the archaeomalacological material together with a study of the spatial distribution of the shells, specifically the crushed murex shells, and the context in which they were found. The data show that already at the end of the Middle Bronze Age there is evidence of the production of purple dye on the tell, an activity that continued until the end of the Late Bronze Age. The currently available data suggest that the dye was produced on a small scale to meet the local needs of the community, as has been shown to be the case with a number of other products in the settlement, including the "luxury" Mycenaean-style pottery and the metal objects.
When did the man get his notion towards marine resources? There are many views for this question, but nevertheless common believe is that it had started three decades ago. The prehistoric man mainly had his attention to find their daily... more
When did the man get his notion towards marine resources? There are many views for this question, but nevertheless common believe is that it had started three decades ago. The prehistoric man mainly had his attention to find their daily bread from costal line and shallow of the sea in the sea zones. Therefore some areas the fish and mussel shells that caught in the food uses as jewelry, these facts discovered through excavations. The bead that has made out of marine shell which was found from Btadoba cave can nominate as the first marine shell bead found in Sri Lanka (Deraniyagala 1992, Perera 2010). Except batadoba cave marine shells and beads found from phahiyagala and pothgullena. According to these facts prehistoric man from picking up marine shells to the fisheries complexity of cultural behavior can be identified. Therefor man was able to attract resources to the coastal region are mainly because different types of mussels, which are in coastal line, sea as well as around the estuary. Based on different values for mussels shows a vast change in the economy. Throughout the history man has used mollusks for different situations and the precious thing what they have got was the pearl. We can a sum that hunter gathers are the first to give a value for a pearl after opening a mussel shell. Even though we can find mollusks in many environment mussels are very rare to find also it is too hard dive to get the pearls. There is evidence that Sri Lanka has involve in the pearl industry in history and the areas. In literary evidence it shows that pearl industry was in Sri Lanka but as time pass it has now faded away. By reviewing pre researchers' ideas, identify the pearl reef distribution and historical activities based on it and identify present value for pearl industry and its modern involve to it was based on this research
This paper discusses the shell assemblage from the Early Bronze Age (2135-1980 BCE) settlement at Archontiko, Giannitsa. Quantitative and detailed contextual analysis of the material offered the opportunity to examine the consumption of... more
This paper discusses the shell assemblage from the Early Bronze Age (2135-1980 BCE) settlement at Archontiko, Giannitsa. Quantitative and detailed contextual analysis of the material offered the opportunity to examine the consumption of molluscs as food and to address the issue of shellfish consumption practices, from the act of procurement, to preparation and discard. The analysis also attempted to compare the shell assemblage to other food remains from Archontiko, as well as to other shell assemblages from Aegean EBA settlements. According to the evidence, molluscs were gathered from the nearby estuarine environment with simple equipment. They were consumed cooked (steamed, roasted) at the household level. The consumption of food, at least of molluscs, seems to have been a private matter, since there is no evidence for outdoors mollusc consumption at Archontiko. According to the spatial analysis of findings, it did not differ significantly between the six domestic units that were studied. Even though roads and open spaces between buildings were used for the disposal of food remains, each domestic unit seems to have followed different practices as regards the disposition of food remnants inside the building. The quantity of shells retrieved from Archontiko shows that molluscs must have been integral parts in the diet of this farming community. The comparison of Archontiko’s shell assemblage to the other EBA shell assemblages shows that the archaeomalacological evidence is characterized by variety. Instead of proposing a general rule for dietary practices in EBA, the evidence of shells suggests that mollusc exploitation, as part of human experience, is not homogeneous and in each site is constructed both by the natural and the cultural setting.
