Abstract

DAVIS, Catalina Valiza; CUETO, Manuel  and  PAUNERO, Rafael. Long bone fractures analysis of guanaco at el rincón site: Peninsula of puerto San Julián, Santa Cruz. Comechingonia [online]. 2018, vol.22, n.2, pp.1-10. ISSN 1851-0027.

In this paper we study an assemblage of bone specimens found in the El Rincón site, located in a sand dune in Puerto San Julián peninsula, Santa Cruz province.  In the highest concentrated areas, to the northeast of the site, three locus of bone remains were delimited and analyzed. We segmented these locus into grids with the purpose of carrying out the systematic in situ survey of the taxonomic and anatomical characteristics of the materials. The analyzed sample consists mainly of Lama guanicoe long bones showing fracture evidence. The origin of these fractures is also evaluated from a morphological and functional perspective. In addition, taphonomic agents and processes that could have modified the materials are identified. Bone remains would have been originated in prey processing and consumption activities, all of them evidenced in transversal fracture/perimetral marking practices, in its use as pounders and in other anthropic marks. These remains would have suffered many burial and unburial processes too. In them, both human and natural agents, such as wind and water have been active, altering and weathering the bones.

Keywords : faunal assemblage - taphonomy - Atlantic coast - Patagonia.