Ikhnos: A Novel Software to Register and Analyze Bone Surface Modifications Based on Three-Dimensional Documentation.

Area of Science:

• Paleontology
• Archaeology
• Bioinformatics

Background:

• Bone surface modifications (BSM) are vital for understanding site formation and identifying agents in fossil records.
• Existing referential models often rely on feeding experiments and butchery simulations for interpretation.
• Accurate analysis of BSM is crucial for interpreting archaeological and paleontological sites.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce Ikhnos, a novel open-access 3D software for studying BSM distribution patterns on limb long bones.
• To provide comprehensive tools for 3D documentation, statistical analysis, and survivorship calculations of BSM.
• To facilitate the estimation of minimum number of elements (MNE) and minimum number of individuals (MNI).

Main Methods:

• Development of the 3D software Ikhnos.
• Integration of the IkhnosToolBox R library for statistical analysis.
• Application of the software in a case study analyzing wolf (Canis lupus signatus) modifications on deer carcasses.

Main Results:

• Ikhnos provides tools for 3D documentation of BSM and bone breakage.
• The IkhnosToolBox enables statistical analysis of BSM data.
• The software demonstrated precision in analyzing wolf-induced modifications on deer remains.

Conclusions:

• Ikhnos is a valuable, open-access tool for the 3D study of BSM.
• The software enhances the analysis of fossil bone assemblages and site formation processes.
• Ikhnos aids in identifying causal agents and estimating MNE/MNI in paleontological studies.