essay

Late Preclassic Maya agriculture, wild plant utilization, and land-use practices

archaeology at cerros, belize, central america : an interim report1 • Published In 1986 • Pages: 147-164

By: Crane, Cathy J..

Abstract
In this botanical investigation of the Cerros site, Crane carried out an extensive survey of plant specimens in four habitats in the area and lists all the species at the end of her article. She also examines pollen and carbonized plant material to identify the types of vegetation present during the Late Preclassic at Cerros. From this data, she infers the subsistence practices, land use, and types of environment of that period. Preliminary findings point to a diet of maize and possibly beans and squash; also palm seeds. Preclassic Maya at Cerros also might have grown cotton, cacao, and various kinds of fruit trees. A complete list of Preclassic plant species is included.
Subjects
Topography and geology
Flora
tradition
Preclassic Maya
HRAF PubDate
2001
Region
Middle America and the Caribbean
Sub Region
Maya Area
Document Type
essay
Evaluation
Creator Type
Botanist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
Ian Skoggard ; 2000
Field Date
1974-1981
Coverage Date
2350-1850 BP
Coverage Place
Cerros, Belize
Notes
Cathy J. Crane
For bibliographical references see document number 6:Anonymous
LCCN
86003843
LCSH
Mayas--Antiquities