The influence of heat on phytolith morphology and implications for quantifying archaeological foxtail and common millets

Abstract Phytoliths are silica bodies formed in living plant tissues, and they can be reliable indicators of their parent plants when demonstrate characteristic phytolith morphology. As shown by the growing case studies around globe, morphology is significant value for identifying even quantifying domesticated plants. However, researchers also alert that phytoliths change, example, alkaline solutions or heat, causing loss eventually leading to over- under-identification certain phytoliths. Focusing on degree which heat cause changes millet, present study carried out a series controlled heating experiments six varieties modern common millet ( Panicum miliaceum ) different regions Northern China. Husked grains were heated following dry ashing method. Specimens prepared from method examined under an optical microscope quantify articulated husk phytoliths, estimate surface area grains. We estimated 30.8% 59.5% underwent morphological damage experiments. Considering our previous foxtail we conclude compared experience more quickly exposed heat. This observation may explain (at least partially) contradictory results between macro- micro-botanical results. It reminds us underrepresented evidence (phytoliths). paper discussing potential archaeological implications