2000 Years of Moth Meals
According to Monash University Archaeologist Professor Bruno David in a University article, the conditions inside the limestone cave helped preserve the Bogong moth remains. He told the Independent that the cool ambient temperature made the soils more alkaline and less acidic, and this means they re perfectly suited to preserve organic materials. Applying a seldom used analysis technique known as “biochemical staining” the grinding stone tool and the moth remains were set on a microscope slide and stained with a special dye that makes collagen and proteins [crushed-up insect remains] within rock fluorescent, therefore, easier to identify.
Discovery of ancient Bogong moth remains at Cloggs Cave gives insight into Indigenous food practices
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Bogong moths migrate from as far as Queensland each year to alpine NSW and Victoria
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Cloggs Cave near Buchan, in eastern Victoria s alpine region, has long been known by the Gunaikurnai people, but a recent archaeological discovery has opened up a dusty window into more of its history.
Key points:
Researchers have discovered ancient Bogong moth remains on a grindstone tool believed to be up to 2,000 years old inside a cave at eastern Victoria
It is the first conclusive archaeological evidence of insect food remains found on a stone tool anywhere in the world