EVIDENCE FROM INSECT REMAINS AND PARASITE EGGS FROM THE OLD GRAPES LANE A SITE, THE LANES, CARLISLE
Author(s): J Carrott, M Dainton, I Kemenes, H Kenward
Samples from 77 contexts of probable prehistoric to medieval date from the Old Grapes Lane B site, Carlisle, have been examined for insect remains and eggs of parasitic worms. The insect material was prioritised by assessment, 59 groups being scan recorded. Worm eggs were studied using a 'squash technique' and results were compared with the conventional one. Worm eggs were generally rare or absent, occasionally present in modest numbers. Insects were present in most samples of Roman date, and occasionally quite or very abundant. 'Outdoor' forms, including aquatics, were proportionally abundant. 'House fauna' was sometimes clearly present, but may have originated in stables or byres rather than human dwellings. Some surface deposits gave indications of the penning of beasts. One sample included several pig lice. The evidence suggests that the area had a rural character in the Roman period, with a small human population and abundant domestic beasts. Medieval material rarely gave many insects; where assemblages were interpretable, there was evidence from decomposers that decaying matter was abundant. A few samples gave larger numbers of insects, including some with a strong house fauna element from fills of a well.
- Report Number:
- 78/1992
- Series:
- AML Reports (New Series)
- Pages:
- 151
- Keywords:
- Animal Remains Insect Parasites, Pests and Diseases
