Taphonomic analysis of an assemblage of Lama guanicoe (Artiodactyla, Camelidae) from late Holocene (Pampean Region, Argentina)

Abstract

The present work analyzes the taphonomic characteristics of an assemblage of Lama guanicoe recovered from the fluvial deposits of Chacra La Blanqueada Formation, at García del Río locality. This locality is situated in the middle valley of the Napostá Grande Creek (south of the Pampean Region, Buenos Aires Province, Argentina). A radiocarbon date of 2342 ± 47 years BP allows the assignment of this assemblage to the late Holocene. The MNI (Minimum Number of Individuals) and the population structure suggest the presence of a family group or part of a mixed group. The available evidence indicates that, throughout their taphonomic history, the remains were affected by processes related to a floodplain sub-environment. Also, the marks of anthropic activity suggest that the death of the animals was circumstantially used as a low-cost and low-risk resource, highlighting the relevant role of this species in the regional hunter-gatherer communities.