Microbiological quality of undulated surf clam (Paphia undulata) in selected areas in Samar, Philippines

Bivalves are filter feeders that ingest particles from the surrounding water, including pathogens,which could cause illness in consumers. In Samar, Philippines no data on the microbial quality of undulatedsurf clam (Paphia undulata) have previously been reported. Thus, this study was conducted to determine themicrobial quality of the species in selected areas in Samar, Philippines (Pinabacdao, Zumarraga andVillareal). The total plate count (TPC) and total Vibrio count were beyond the standard limits set by the Foodand Drug Administration (FDA), although Salmonella was not detected in any samples. The TPC ofundulated surf clam was 5.9-6.3 log CFU·g-1 in Pinabacdao, 4.9-6.0 log CFU·g-1 in Zumarraga, and 6.3-7.2log CFU·g-1 in Villareal. The total Vibrio count was 5.1-5.7 log CFU·g-1 in Pinabacdao, 3.9-4.6 log CFU·g-1in Zumarraga, and 6.1 log CFU·g-1 in Villareal. Bivalves in these areas should undergo purification process,such as relaying or depuration

Site Context and the Spatial Organization of a Late Holocene Coastal Hunter-Gatherer Campsite in North-Central Chile, South America

We explored the site context of a late Holocene shell midden on the coast of Los Vilos in north-central Chile (31°51′ S, South America) to better understand the spatial organization of short-term, small-sized hunter-gatherer campsites. The Dunas de Agua Amarilla (LV 007) site comprises 14 separate surf clam refuse deposits. Extensive stratigraphic excavations of the shell middens and the areas free of residue allowed interpretation of potential activity areas bounded by hearths, the shell middens, and a possible dwelling space. Late Holocene campsites in the area correspond to brief occupational events framed within littoral residential mobility, in which predictable coastal resources became a staple for groups residing and circulating over long periods in the area. Data on shell midden composition and the spatial distribution of site features shed light on the organizational dynamics of dwelling and activity spaces of coastal hunter-gatherers of the South Pacific.