Exploring the role of otariids in the subsistence of hunter gatherers from Pampean archaeological sites at the Late Holocene (Argentina)

Abstract

New taxonomical, anatomical, taphonomic and chronological information about archaeological remains of otariids from Puente de Fierro site (Pampean region, Argentina) is presented. Two species, Arctocephalus australis and Otaria flavescens, were identified. Fragmentation and traces of roots were the predominant taphonomic effects; also slight weathering stages were recognized and scarce gnawing marks of carnivora were identified. Frequencies of skeletal parts suggest that only certain anatomical pieces, especially limbs, entered the site or were preserved. We propose that hunter-gatherers occasionally obtained otariids from the Atlantic coast (transported them 7km away to the residential camp) or some individuals that enter freshwaters in the fluvial environment near the site. Puente de Fierro record stands out from regional Late Holocene inland sites, because otariids NISP and MNI are notably higher than in similar and synchronic assemblages.