Late-Glacial bifacial microblade core technologies in Hokkaido: An implication of human adaptation along the northern Pacific Rim

Abstract

The wedge-shaped microblade core technology found along the northern Pacific Rim has been regarded as a trait of hunter-gatherer adaptation during the Late Glacial and initial Holocene. Having recognized variable microblade core reduction methods among the technocomplexes in Hokkaido, by employing an optimization model in lithic technology, the present paper addresses the question of what role bifacial microblade core technologies played in foraging, through a comparative analysis of utility, cost of transportation, and failure rates between the larger (“Sakkotsu”) and smaller (“Oshorokko”) bifacial microblade core technologies in the Late Glacial Hokkaido. Results suggest that as opposed to the larger bifacial microblade core technology, the smaller bifacial microblade core technology was more effective for exploring unpredictable environment across the northern Pacific Rim.