Affiliation: | (1) Microfossil Reserch Ltd., 31 Mont Le Grand Rd, Mt Eden, Auckland, New Zealand;(2) School of Geography and Enviormental Science, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92 019, Auckland, New Zealand;(3) 547 Scenic Drive, Waiatarua, Auckland, 1208, New Zealand;(4) Microfossil Research Ltd., 31 Mont Le Grand Rd, Mount Eden, Auckland, New Zealand |
Abstract: | Microfossil analysis of latrine fills from the early European (1830s) settlement of Russell, northern New Zealand, provides direct evidence for diet. Microfossils identified include pollen of maize (Zea mays), Brassicaceae (e.g., mustard, broccoli), Allium type (e.g., onion) and mint (Mentha), and starch grains of maize and potato (Solanum tuberosum). Wetland microfossils (pollen and algal spores) provide clues to source and quality of drinking water. |