Holocene hunter-gatherers in the Puna. Integrating zooarchaeological evidence in Antofagasta de la Sierra (Argentina)

Zooarchaeological information is presented on Holocene archaeological sites in Antofagasta de la Sierra, in the Argentinean Puna, in order to understand hunter-gatherer subsistence strategies in context. Taphonomic and zooarchaeological approaches are integrated, and osteometric and dental analyses are complemented with microscopic fiber analyses to study camelid remains, which are the most abundant. Inter-site variability is discussed, as while vicuña (Vicugna vicugna) was preferentially exploited in some occupations, guanaco (Lama guanicoe) is more abundant in others. Progressive control on segments of camelid populations is inferred. These patterns are in turn compared to those in other Puna areas, and inferences on hunter-gatherer ecology are discussed, such as their incorporation in the regional faunal community and the intensification in their relationships to camelids.