Exploring the zooarchaeological evidence of otariids exploitation by terrestrial hunter-gatherers along the western coast of San Matías Gulf, Argentina

Abstract

Along the coast of the San Matías Gulf (GSM, Patagonia, Argentina) it is common to find otariid remains in the zooarchaeological record of terrestrial hunter-gatherers. Whereas fisheswere the main resource, otariids served as an important secondary resource. Despite its importance, the knowledge about the exploitation patternsis scarce, due to the small representation of otariid remains in some samples andthe difficulties of distinguishing post cranial elements between the two species present in the archaeological record (Otaria flavescens and Arcthocephalus australis).This identification requires the use of multiple methodologies (reference collections, distinctive morphological features and osteometric studies) that cannot always be used together.In this presentation we present the results of the analysis of two zooarchaeological otariid assemblages dated in the late Holocene (PO and QB; ca. 3000 and 1300 years BP, respectively) recovered along the west coast of the GSM. The objective is to explore temporal trends in the mode of exploitation of these animals (species, sex and age selection). Also, given that in the area there are currently otariid breeding herds, this study will also provide information for a discussion on the early distribution of these animals in Patagonia.