Proposal to export micromammal bone fragments for the purposes of species identification by ZooMS – feasibility test (NHRA section 35(4))

The proposal is to test potential of identification of micromammal species from Middle Stone Age (MSA) sequences by use of Zooarchaeology by Mass Spectrometry (ZooMS). Our study aim to 1) establish if there is sufficient amounts of collagen present in micromammal bone material from MSA levels at Klipdrift Shelter (KDS), De Hoop Nature Reserve, suitable for genus/species identification by using ZooMS and 2) establish appropriate techniques for sampling by either leaching or bone powder. The micromammal bone material is from section and surface cleanings of MSA deposits. The total weight of the sample is 23.52 grams and consist of post-cranial and cranial micromammal skeletal elements and unidentified bone fragments. The samples will be returned to the KDS collection after analyses.