Diet in Southern Chile (36°-42°S). A synthesis from the isotopic data

Abstract

In this paper we present and assess human isotopic data (δ13C and δ15N) available for Southern Chile. We analyze 24 cases from six different geographical zones, dated 200-1850 AD. This new information allows us to characterize individuals who had different subsistence patterns, social organization and historical trajectories, vis-a-vis phenomena like the adoption of ceramics (150 BC), cultigens (750-1000 AD) and the arrival of Europeans (1550 AD). This is complemented by a regional baseline of 45 archaeological faunal and plant resources.Based on our results, three dietary patterns can be identified over time (from 1000 to 1850 AD): one oriented towards marine resources, another towards C3 plants and terrestrial protein, and the last focused on a mixed consumption of C3 and C4 plants, complemented by intake of terrestrial and marine protein. These cases show significant intra-zone consistency over time, and high inter-zone variability.This heterogeneous situation is evident even in synchronous individuals ascribed to the same cultural-historical unit or inhabiting the same geographical macro-zone (valley, coast, islands). It also contrasts with results from adjacent areas to Southern Chile. This highlights the complex diet variability that existed in societies which otherwise appear to be extremely alike in their archaeological record (burials, pottery) and ethnographic features (language, rituals).