PHYTOLITH, STARCH, AND BLOOD RESIDUE ANALYSIS OF ARTIFACTS FROM SITE 41MU55, TEXAS

Fifteen artifacts from Site 41MJ55 in northern Texas were analyzed for phytoliths, starches, and possible blood residues. This site is a Middle Archaic site with a mantle of historic materials covering the prehistoric deposits. Eight cobble tools and five fire-cracked rocks were washed for phytoliths and starches to identify any plant residue adhering to these tools as a result of their use. Blood residue analysis is used to help provide prehistoric subsistence information and possible artifact specificity. The two biface fragments tested for possible animal proteins yielded positive results to animals that most likely represent historic barnyard animals.