Earliest isotopic evidence in the Maya region for animal management and long-distance trade at the site of Ceibal, Guatemala

Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 2018 Apr 3;115(14):3605-3610. doi: 10.1073/pnas.1713880115. Epub 2018 Mar 19.

Abstract

This study uses a multiisotope (carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and strontium) approach to examine early animal management in the Maya region. An analysis of faunal specimens across almost 2,000 years (1000 BC to AD 950) at the site of Ceibal, Guatemala, reveals the earliest evidence for live-traded dogs and possible captive-reared taxa in the Americas. These animals may have been procured for ceremonial functions based on their location in the monumental site core, suggesting that animal management and trade began in the Maya area to promote special events, activities that were critical in the development of state society. Isotopic evidence for animal captivity at Ceibal reveals that animal management played a greater role in Maya communities than previously believed.

Keywords: Maya archaeology; isotope analysis; zooarchaeology.

Publication types

  • Historical Article
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Animal Husbandry*
  • Animals
  • Archaeology / history*
  • Carbon Radioisotopes / analysis*
  • Dogs
  • Guatemala
  • History, Ancient
  • Humans
  • Livestock / physiology*
  • Marketing*
  • Nitrogen Radioisotopes / analysis*
  • Oxygen Radioisotopes / analysis*
  • Strontium Radioisotopes / analysis

Substances

  • Carbon Radioisotopes
  • Nitrogen Radioisotopes
  • Oxygen Radioisotopes
  • Strontium Radioisotopes