Two methods, two views: Integrating phytoliths in thin sections and bulk samples on the urban Dark Earths from the DIVA-site (Antwerp, Belgium).

ABSTRACT: Traditionally, phytolith analyses are carried out by extraction from bulk (sediment) samples. This technique provides valuable information, not only on the morphological and/or taxonomic assignment of phytoliths, but also on their concentration (quantitative analysis). However, extraction leads to the loss of the (micro-)context in which they are embedded. Over the past 20 years, the study of phytoliths in soil thin sections has proven to be a consistent method. As phytoliths are neither removed from their sedimentary matrix nor artificially concentrated, their analysis provides information on their taphonomical history, but their morphological identification is sometimes limited. Therefore, it seems obvious that the next step to improve phytolith analysis is to combine the two approaches.

SUBMITTER: Alonso-Eguiluz M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11957287 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature