Reconstructing ancient Maya animal trade through strontium isotope (87Sr/86Sr) analysis

This study explores the potential for using strontium isotope analysis (87Sr/86Sr) to study ancient Maya animal exchange. Traditional zooarchaeological methods of studying trade rely on the identification of animals found outside their natural geographic or habitat ranges. Isotopic analysis provides an additional means of identifying and sourcing non-local animals. 87Sr/86Sr values from Maya zooarchaeological remains indicate that regional and long-distance transport and exchange of animal goods was more common than previously recognized. Widely distributed animals including deer and peccary were among the animals exchanged, which questions their common interpretation as locally-acquired resources. The isotopic results contribute to our understanding of how animal products were integrated into Maya economic and exchange networks. The research is also relevant to human mobility studies in Mesoamerica.

► Strontium isotope analysis (87Sr/86Sr) can identify and source non-local animals.
► Exchange of animals was more common in the Maya area than previously recognized.
► Maya animal trade included common, widespread species such as deer and peccary.