Bone Modification Pattern Produced by the South American Carnivore Lesser Grison (Galictis cuja)

Abstract

This study is part of an actualistic taphonomic project designed to characterize the bone modification patterns generated by native South American carnivores. In this opportunity we present the results of the bone modifications (skeletal representation, breakage, and tooth marks) produced by a captive lesser grison (Mustelidae: Galictis cuja) that was fed 10 wild guinea pigs (Cavia aperea) at a local zoo. All the remains (non-ingested bones and scats) were collected. Here, we present the results of the non-ingested bones. This assemblage corresponds to 560 specimens; 64.6% are identifiable elements and 35.4% are undetermined bone fragments. A high percentage of the remains (77%) are fractured, and 42% showed some type of carnivore mark, including pits (25.4%), crenulated edges (21.1%), punctures (9.3%), scores (8.9%), and notches (1.8%). The more frequent elements are cranium, teeth, and autopodial bones. Results from this study suggest that the lesser grison produces a highly modified bone assemblage. The information presented here contributes to understanding the bone modifications produced by this small-sized carnivore and provides a frame of reference for a more comprehensive understanding of the accumulations produced by small-sized predators in the South American archaeological record.