The archaeofauna of Northwestern Argentina’s Late Period. An approach from the Molinos I assemblages (Salta province, Argentina)

Abstract

The aim of this work is to contribute with data and interpretations of the faunal composition of a household from Molinos I, temporarily located in the Regional Developments Period or Late Period of the Argentine northwest. A taphonomic oriented analysis is used in terms of observe modifications produced by natural agents or processes like those conducted by action of the old settlers of this pre-Hispanic site. Also the presence of different taxa was analyzed. Among them the most frequent are artiodactyls and within this category the South American camelids prevail. An interpretation on camelid remains acquisition, use and handling among the old inhabitants of Structures 1 and 2 of the site is given. In sum, the study of Molinos I archaeofauna was focused considering the identified species, their frequency, the represented age classes, the fragmentation of the collection and the action of different processes like thermal alterations, among others. Through the analysis of the assemblage the presence of hunting oriented activities was identified, which predominate over the domestic animal assemblages.