Faunal development in the south-western Baltic area: Anthropogenic and natural influences

• Applicant: Professor Dr. Dirk Heinrich
• Subject Area: Palaeontology
• Term: from 2002 to 2006
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 5469791

The aim of the investigations is to get knowledge about the environment of different Stone Age settlements by their faunal remains. These remains are derived from different species with their special ecological demands. However, it must be taken into account that the different species were of a certain value for the inhabitants, which means palaeoeconomy must also be taken into consideration. The development of the fauna according to species and frequencies can be studied by comparison of the faunal remains of the sites belonging to different phases mainly within the Stone Age period, which shall be excavated in the area of the south-western Baltic. This development is related to climatic alterations with their influence on vegetation and landscape. As far as marine vertebrates, especially fishes, are concerned, the special influence of differences in the salinity, which are caused by sea level changes, will be estimated.

• DFG Programme: Research Units
• Subproject of: FOR 488: Sinking Coasts: Geosphere, Ecosphere and Anthroposphere of the Holocene Southern Baltic Sea
• Participating Person: Professor Dr. Claus von Carnap-Bornheim