Arqueozoología

Arqueozoología is the interdisciplinary study of animal remains recovered from archaeological sites. Also known as zooarchaeology, it bridges the gap between archaeology and biology, focusing on the analysis of faunal assemblages to understand past human-animal interactions. Archaeologists and zooarchaeologists examine animal bones, teeth, shells, and other organic materials to identify species, determine age and sex, reconstruct butchery marks, and interpret evidence of domestication and food consumption.

The primary goal of arqueozoología is to reconstruct past ecosystems, human subsistence strategies, and economic activities. By identifying the types and quantities of animals present, researchers can infer dietary habits, hunting practices, and the role of animals in trade, ritual, and craft production. For example, the presence of specific animal bones can indicate hunting preferences, while evidence of cut marks might reveal butchery techniques.

Furthermore, arqueozoología contributes to understanding the process of animal domestication, a pivotal moment in human history. The analysis of skeletal morphology and genetic material from animal remains can distinguish between wild and domesticated populations, shedding light on when and where domestication occurred and its impact on human societies and animal evolution. This field also aids in identifying environmental changes and human impact on wildlife populations over time.