From early evidence to control: the origins of plant protection in prehistory
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34188/bjaerv9n3-223Palavras-chave:
archaeoentomology, archaeobotany, agricultural pests, plant protection, pre-historyResumo
This paper analyzes the historical origin of plant protection and the first relationships among human societies, cultivation, and potentially harmful organisms based on archaeobotanical and archaeoentomological evidence. The discussion covers insect remains, damaged grains and seeds, storage structures, organic waste, and other evidence preserved at prehistoric sites capable of revealing the presence of organisms associated with plant resources and the first agricultural practices. Evidence such as boreholes, galleries, insect remains, and concentrations of damaged grains enable inferring the occurrence of pests and their relationship with cultivation and storage. Evidence of prevention practices, such as seed selection and cleaning, drying, exposure, protected storage, and the use of structures designed for food preservation, is also addressed. However, the interpretation of this evidence requires caution, as differential preservation, post-depositional processes, and taxonomic limitations can complicate the identification of the agents involved. Thus, plant protection is interpreted as a gradual learning process, in which preservation and prevention practices may have reduced losses prior to the emergence of deliberate pest control methods.
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