Abstract
The DNA identification of the microorganisms that colonized the so-called Tyrolean Iceman in the ancient times can offer a clue to understanding the exact process through which the natural mummification of the 5.100–5.300 year-old body took place. The results suggest that this process was considerably more complex than previously assumed (wind desiccation followed by freezing) possibly involving also a prolonged stage of water immersion of the corpse.
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Rollo, F., Luciani, S. & Ubaldi, M. Ancient microorganisms offer new clues to the Iceman’s mummification. Hum. Evol. 12, 197–208 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02438069
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF02438069