| The methodology for identification of the fiber plants used to manufacture a perishable artifact has traditionally been performed using gross morphological characteristics. Fiber plants within the genera Yucca, Agave, Nolina, and Dasylirion were the plants of choice prehistorically for the making of fiber objects, and their similar traits can lead to errors in identification when relying solely on external features. In 1944, Bell and King published a methodology to facilitate identification of fiber plants based on constant anatomical characteristics within the plant's vascular system. The vascular bundle morphology and arrangement between taxa of the genera are unique and discernable in cross section. The use of vascular bundle anatomy and arrangement and their comparison with fiber artifacts have demonstrated a most effective and reliable method of recognition among eighteen examples analyzed. Limitations of this analytical method include deterioration of fiber materials, restrictions on sample amounts, and lack of identification as to particular species within the genera. |
