Their adaptability, their knowledge, and their social networks were the foundations on which all subsequent human history in Texas was built.

The Problem Of Preservation And What It Means For The Future

One of the fundamental challenges of studying ancient Texas populations is the problem of preservation — the question of which evidence survives and which does not.

The limestone sinkholes of the Edwards Plateau offer, under some conditions, better preservation than open sites.

The underground environment has more constant temperature and humidity, slowing the decay of organic materials.

The alkalinity of the limestone can sometimes help preserve bone, though it can also in other cases accelerate dissolution.