Spatial analysis of the Faunal Assemblage at Dmanisi, Georgia:a look at spatial analysis methods in theory and in practice.

Abstract

This study represents the first steps taken to fully understand the spatial organization of the faunal assemblage at the archaeological site in Dmanisi, Georgia. Dmanisi is significant in that it is the oldest hominin site outside of Africa, dating from 1.85-1.76 million years. The rich faunal diversity, presence of hominins, and the abundance of stone tools make Dmanisi an important site with major implications regarding the first Homo migrations out of Africa. Many spatial analysis techniques are used in archaeology, but this study aims to determine the utility of the various techniques for the Dmanisi assemblage, including spatial autocorrelation, variance to mean ratio, point density, and quadrat analysis. By analyzing several different taphonomic aspects of the faunal assemblage, we can begin to understand the layout of the different sub-assemblages and potentially determine if there are any spatially interesting clusters of activity, whether it is hominin or carnivore. Two areas of the site, Block 2 and M6, are examined and have significant spatial clusters that are helping to unravel the taphonomic history of the site.