Bayesian Morphometric Analysis for Archaeological Seed Identification: <i>Phoenix</i> (Arecaceae) Palms from the Canary Islands (Spain)
The taxonomic complexity of <i>Phoenix</i> palms in the Canary Islands, where multiple morphotypes representing at least four taxa currently exist, presents significant challenges for archaeobotanical identification. We developed a Bayesian probabilistic framework to identify archaeologi...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
MDPI AG
2025-04-01
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| Series: | Seeds |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://www.mdpi.com/2674-1024/4/2/19 |
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| Summary: | The taxonomic complexity of <i>Phoenix</i> palms in the Canary Islands, where multiple morphotypes representing at least four taxa currently exist, presents significant challenges for archaeobotanical identification. We developed a Bayesian probabilistic framework to identify archaeological <i>Phoenix</i> seeds within the context of genus-wide morphological diversity. Our analysis incorporated thousands of specimens including modern reference collections, archaeological materials from pre-Hispanic sites in Gran Canaria and La Gomera (3–16th centuries CE), and fossil remains. We recorded quantitative measurements and qualitative characteristics for each specimen. To understand taphonomic effects, we conducted experimental carbonization of modern <i>P. canariensis</i> seeds and documented the resulting morphological alterations. We performed a hierarchical cluster analysis using Ward’s minimum variance method and calculated taxonomic assignment probabilities for archaeological specimens using Bayesian inference, where likelihood was derived from taxon proportions within assigned clusters. The results indicated a high probability (0.69–1.00) that the archaeological specimens belong to <i>P. canariensis</i> var. <i>canariensis</i>, with no evidence for <i>P. dactylifera</i> presence. These findings provide critical insights into pre-Hispanic exploitation of Phoenix palms, particularly the endemic <i>P. canariensis</i>, which served as a vital resource, providing food, fiber, and construction materials. Our methodological approach offers a robust framework for addressing taxonomic uncertainty in archaeobotanical research while enhancing understanding of historical palm biogeography and resource use patterns in the Canary Islands. |
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| ISSN: | 2674-1024 |