Paraffin flotation for archaeoentomological research: is it really efficient?

Mélanie Rousseau

Environmental Archaeology, 2011, vol. 16, issue 1, 58-64

Abstract: Paraffin flotation has been used extensively in archaeoentomology and paleoentomology in the last four decades but not tested systematically. Its efficiency is here assessed. Eighty-five per cent of the identifiable coleopteran remains were recovered regardless of any variables. Some explanations of the method's variable efficiency given in published literature were tested, namely the experience of the technician, the nature of the residue, and the taxon and body part. Difference in recovery rates between four categories of workers proved significant. Residue type influences the efficiency of the method but the type of sclerite was of little importance in the process. Overall, however, paraffin flotation was shown to be sufficiently efficient and its continued use is recommended.

Date: 2011
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DOI: 10.1179/146141010X12640787648342

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