Study of pottery crust using the method of starch grain analysis (the evidence of the Markelov mys-2 burial ground)

This article presents first results of studying pottery crust from the vessels discovered at the Markelov Mys-II burial ground of the Tashtyk and Old Turkic cultures. Samples of pottery crust were taken mechanically from the surface of vessel fragments. In laboratory, samples were chemically treated and centrifugated in heavy liquid in order to isolate light fraction containing various organic residues including starch grains, plantfibers, and non-specific phytoliths. Starch grains are storage elements in seeds and roots of some plants. They are resistant to chemical and physical impact and are well preserved in relatively protected conditions (on tool surface, pottery crust, or dental cementum) for thousands of years. Morphological features revealed by the structure of starch grains make it possible to determine the plants they were obtained from, making it also possible to partially reconstruct the diet and ritual traditions of the population. Micrographs of starch grains of spelt, durum wheat, barley, and cattail are presented in direct and polarized translucent light. Analysis of starch grains has revealed six types of starch mainly of cereal origin and cattail. According to the data obtained, it was established that the remains of the same types of starches were found in the vessels which were intended for children and adults. The conclusion is made about continuity of the dietary system of the Tashtyk and Old Turkic population from the Middle Yenisei region, based on consumption of two types of cereals (wheat and barley). Methodological recommendations for improvement of laboratory processing in further studies are given.