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A morphometric system to distinguish sheep and goat postcranial bones
Lenny Salvagno1, Umberto Albarella1
1Department of Archaeology, University of Sheffield, Northgate House, Sheffield, United Kingdom.
Plos One
|June 9, 2017
Summary
Distinguishing sheep and goat bones is challenging. This study introduces a new morphometric method using bone measurements, improving accuracy beyond traditional morphological analysis for zooarchaeology.
Area of Science:
- Zooarchaeology
- Bioarchaeology
- Osteology
Background:
- Distinguishing sheep (Ovis aries) and goat (Capra aegagrus hircus) bones is a persistent challenge in zooarchaeology.
- Current macro-morphological methods have limitations, including variability across populations and reliance on researcher expertise.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop a more objective and quantifiable method for identifying sheep and goat postcranial bones.
- To enhance the accuracy of species identification in zooarchaeological assemblages.
Main Methods:
- A comprehensive morphometric method was developed using measurements from over 150 modern sheep and goat skeletons.
- New and existing bone measurements were utilized, focusing on measurement ratios to translate morphological traits into biometrical attributes.
- Discriminant Analysis was employed to test the efficacy of the morphometric indices and identify optimal measurements.
Main Results:
- The proposed morphometric method, utilizing measurement ratios, demonstrated substantial diagnostic potential.
- The vast majority of specimens were correctly assigned to species, indicating high accuracy.
- Discriminant Analysis successfully verified the biometrical indices and provided statistical selection of promising measurements.
Conclusions:
- The new morphometric method offers a more objective system for sheep and goat bone identification in zooarchaeology.
- Combining this method with traditional morphological approaches is recommended for improved accuracy.
- The study provides a valuable tool for researchers, enhancing the reliability of zooarchaeological analyses.
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