ITALY

Around the World September 1, 2011

By Samir S. Patel

(Courtesy Carlo Beltrame, Universita Ca'Foscari Venezia)

ITALY: In a 2nd-century A.D. Roman wreck containing amphorae full of processed fish, divers have discovered evidence of a live well to keep fish fresh during transport. Researchers believe a flanged lead pipe found near the ship's keel was connected to a pump to bring seawater aboard. Historical texts suggest the ancient Romans traded in live fish, but this is the first physical evidence of the practice. Researchers plan to reconstruct the device.

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AdobeStock/lucaar