Identification of the Triticoid-type grains (Poaceae) from archaeobotanical assemblages in southwest Asia as Heteranthelium piliferum (Banks & Sol.) Hochst.

Abstract The so-called Triticoid-type grains are known from several prehistoric sites in southwest Asia and their identification has long been unclear. They resemble the of wheats researchers suggested they may represent an extinct Triticeae species, possibly closely related to wild crop progenitors. In this study we identify as Heteranthelium piliferum (Banks & Sol.) Hochst. describe key criteria. is based on morphological analyses modern archaeological material grass species was first achieved with well-preserved specimens Early Neolithic Chogha Golan, Iran. We further examined recently excavated samples Ganj Dareh, Iran, archived Late Chalcolithic Bronze Age Tell Brak northeast Syria, confirming H. . Based herbarium at Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, London, provide a detailed distribution map review species’ biology ecological adaptations. Collected cultivated were analysed order understand high phenotypic plasticity growth habit, its correlation environmental variables relation grain size. variability charred deposits, assessed effects experimental carbonisation different temperatures , Triticum dicoccum T. thaoudar Secale vavilovii light present study, discuss relevance for reconstructing subsistence strategies.