Auditory ossicles in archaeological skeletal material from medieval Denmark

Area of Science:

• Archaeology
• Bioarchaeology
• Paleopathology

Background:

• Auditory ossicles are crucial for hearing and can preserve well in archaeological contexts.
• Previous studies on archaeological ossicles have faced challenges with low recovery rates.
• Early medieval skeletal materials offer a unique window into past populations.

Observation:

• Two skeletal assemblages from early medieval Denmark were analyzed for auditory ossicles.
• A total of 1,309 ossicles were recovered, representing 23% and 55% of expected in vivo ossicles.
• These recovery percentages are among the highest reported in archaeological studies.

Findings:

• The high yield of auditory ossicles from these Danish sites is significant.
• The recovered ossicles are suitable for detailed palaeopathological analysis.
• Morphometric data from these ossicles can inform population genetics and taxonomic studies.

Implications:

• This study demonstrates the potential of archaeological auditory ossicles for robust scientific analysis.
• High recovery rates enhance the value of ossicles for understanding ancient ear diseases like chronic otitis media and otosclerosis.
• Morphological analysis of these ossicles can contribute to understanding human migration and population dynamics in early medieval Europe.