Human manipulation of terrestrial gastropods in Neolithic culture groups of NE Morocco

Shells of terrestrial gastropods (Helicidae, Sphincterochilidae) are common in rock shelter sediments and open-air sites of Iberomaurusian to Neolithic age in NE Morocco. Excavations at numerous sites in the eastern Rif yielded new sites with a rich record of well-preserved terrestrial gastropods, among which species of the genera Otala, Sphincterochila and Alabastrina dominate. In sites with sediments younger than 7500 calBP, such as Taghit Haddouch, Hassi Ouenzga, Ifri Oudadane, Ifri Armas and Mtlili, a high percentage of shells were perforated in a regular manner. Narrow slots or squarish holes of a few millimetres width cut into the second or third whorl are regularly found in an apical position of the shell. We interpret these as evidence of human manipulation of the shell in order to facilitate consumption of the snail body. We discuss these new findings in the context of the settlement of this part of North Africa by different cultural groups.