Assessing modifications on modern bone: contributions of a taphonomic experiment with Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus, 1758 (Insecta, Coleoptera, Tenebrionidae)

Abstract

In order to expand the knowledge about the taphonomic agents that can affect the archaeological and palaeontological record, especially the activity of specific bioturbating insects, we started observations in a controlled context with Tenebrio molitor Linnaeus, 1758. Thus, we arranged two plastic containers, each with 20 larvae and 10 adults of T. molitor. We placed skeletal elements corresponding to different taxa: their state of conservation was either complete or fractured, and their condition varied from dry without tissue to fresh with meat. We made a weekly record for 6months to account for the behaviour and access of the insects to the remains and their changes. As a result, we observed different larval stages and pupae near the bones, and destruction was progressively evident from the second month onwards. Through a consecutive examination of the bones, we identified different types of modifications: individual and multiple parallel striations, surface removal, destruction, etched appearance, pits with emanating striae, pits with striations in the base, and boreholes. We remark that the larvae modified bones in both fresh and dry conditions and can alter them in a short period. This could affect the anatomical and taxonomic identification and obliterate pre-existing marks.