Plant macrofossils and pollen in goat/sheep faeces from the Neolithic lake-shore settlement Arbon Bleiche 3, Switzerland

Abstract

Over 300 goat/sheep faeces from the Neolithic lake-shore settlement of Arbon Bleiche 3 (3384–3370 bc) were analysed for macrofossils and 22 of them for pollen. Two main types of fodder could be detected, which were both consumed in winter. The more frequent type is characterized by remains of blackberry ( Rubus fruticosus s. l.) probably showing the use of pasture in the near surroundings of the settlement. The second type is dominated by leaf fragments of silver fir ( Abies alba) and by pollen and anthers of early-flowering shrubs such as hazel ( Corylus avellana) and alder ( Alnus sp.), pointing in the latter cases to additional foddering of twigs to livestock inside the settlement in times of shortage. Comparison with other Neolithic sites of Switzerland reveals differences that may indicate local adaptations in the keeping of goats or sheep.