Christine Winter-Schuh , Rebekka Eckelmann , Cheryl A. Makarewicz
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Sequential stable isotope analyses of hypsodont ruminant molars provide insights into animal behavior and human-animal interactions at seasonal scales. Stable carbon (δ13C) and nitrogen (δ15N) isotope ratios obtained from intra-tooth sequences of dentinal collagen inform on animal weaning and feeding habits, but sequential sampling of this tissue is rarely carried out in part due to the undefined relationship between dentin geometry, sample position, and measured isotope values. Here, we present a serial sampling approach applied to dentin collagen from modern and archaeological taurine second molars that entails sub-sampling the outermost portion of the dentin structure. Compared to intra-tooth isotope sequences measured from the entire thickness of the dentin structure, nitrogen isotope sequences obtained from the outermost dentin portion better capture the weaning process, while carbon isotope values reveal subtle but discernible shifts in C3 dietary intake that were not visible in dentin portions involving the entire dentin thickness. The ability to document dietary change at higher resolution has important implications for gaining more nuanced insights into livestock husbandry practices in the past, including foddering, weaning, and pasturing.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Archaeological Science is aimed at archaeologists and scientists with particular interests in advancing the development and application of scientific techniques and methodologies to all areas of archaeology. This established monthly journal publishes focus articles, original research papers and major review articles, of wide archaeological significance. The journal provides an international forum for archaeologists and scientists from widely different scientific backgrounds who share a common interest in developing and applying scientific methods to inform major debates through improving the quality and reliability of scientific information derived from archaeological research.