| Abstract: |
This paper reports the potential of quick scan studies of phytoliths as a useful preliminary step in the reconstruction of climate and vegetation history. In Southeast Asia and Papua New Guinea, few phytolith analyses have been carried out. Phytolith assemblages established by quick scan methods are reported for one non-cultural site (a lake in northeast Thailand), and four archaeological open sites (Plain of Jars and Lao Pako, Laos
Pacung, North Bali, Indonesia
Kuk, Papua New Guinea). The studies reported demonstrate that quick scan analysis can indicate the range of phytolith assemblages, as well as presence/absence, in sediments. Despite the lack of comprehensive phytolith reference collections decisions can be made from these data on whether detailed analysis would be worthwhile. A quantitative analysis of phytoliths from Gua Chawas, a large limestone rockshelter in northern Kelantan, Malaysia, is also reported. Figure 1 shows the location of sites referred to in the text.
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