French Polynesia coral house study points to ecological past

Scientists use coral to reveal history of colonial buildings

A study published by Cambridge University Press shows that coral used in 19th-century buildings can be dated directly, offering a clearer timeline for construction in parts of the Pacific where written records are limited. The research, led by James Flexner, focuses on the Mangareva Islands. By applying uranium-thorium (U-Th) dating to coral blocks, the study tests whether building materials themselves can provide reliable dates for structures l…

French Polynesia coral house study points to ecological past

A team of archaeologists has used an advanced dating technique to establish a precise construction timeline for houses built out of coral in French Polynesia.