Human Coprolites as a Source for Paleomicrobiology

Microbiol Spectr. 2016 Aug;4(4). doi: 10.1128/microbiolspec.PoH-0002-2014.

Abstract

The paleomicrobiology of coprolites, which are fossilized fecal materials, has already yielded data about various organisms, including micro-eukaryotes, bacteria, and archaea, thus expanding our comprehension of ancient human dietary habits, gut microbiota, and intestinal and systemic infections. This mini-review briefly describes previous works and summarizes the main techniques used in handling coprolites and the findings obtained about ancient gut microbiota. Past intestinal and systemic infections are outlined.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Feces / microbiology*
  • Fossils / microbiology*
  • Humans
  • Microbiological Techniques / methods*
  • Paleopathology / methods*
  • Specimen Handling / methods*