沉睡2200年的“地下粮仓”重见天日

Core Insights - The discovery of well-preserved rice remains in a 2200-year-old tomb in Hubei's Yunmeng Zhengjiahu site represents the earliest and largest instance of grain burial in China, providing insights into ancient agricultural practices and beliefs [2][3] Archaeological Findings - Nearly 100,000 grains of rice from the Warring States period were uncovered, indicating a long-standing tradition of rice cultivation in the Jianghan Plain, dating back to the late Warring States period [3] - The tomb contained not only rice but also remains of various plants such as chestnuts, melons, and jujubes, reflecting the dietary preferences and biodiversity of the region during that era [3] Preservation Techniques - The rice grains were preserved in a waterlogged environment, which acted as a natural preservative, preventing oxidation and damage [5] - Scientific analysis, including carbon isotope studies, is being conducted to trace the irrigation sources and evolutionary paths of the rice varieties found [5] Cultural Significance - The intentional processing of some rice grains before burial suggests a symbolic role in ancient rituals, possibly representing a connection between the living and the afterlife [5] - The findings contribute to understanding the agricultural history and cultural practices of the Warring States period, highlighting the importance of grains in funerary customs [2][5] Broader Implications - The discovery of ancient seeds, like those from Yunmeng, emphasizes the resilience of life and the potential for ancient genetic traits to inform modern agricultural practices [6][8] - The preservation of ancient seeds serves as a vital resource for studying the origins of agriculture and the exchange of civilizations, underscoring the need for biodiversity conservation in agriculture [9]