Subsistence behaviour at Klasies River during MIS 5d: a taphonomic and taxonomic analysis of fauna from the SBLS layer

Abstract

This project entails an analysis of the faunal material from the SBLS layer at Klasies River main site, which correlates with Marine Isotope Stage (MIS) 5d (109ka-96ka). There have been relatively few taphonomic analyses conducted at Klasies River and subsistence behaviours during MIS5d are not well understood. Zooarchaeological analyses are an important aspect of studying subsistence behaviour, and these were used to examine subsistence strategies, occupational intensity and site formation processes occurring at c. 110 ka. To explore subsistence behaviour during this period, a taphonomic and taxonomic analysis of large mammal faunal remains from squares A1 and C1 of the SBLS layer was conducted. The results indicate that: (1), humans are the main accumulators of the fauna; (2) there is evidence of occupational intensity in MIS5d; and (3) that post-depositional site formation processes have had a significant impact on the faunal material in SBLS. Taphonomic analyses show high frequencies of anthropogenic bone surface modifications such as cut and percussion marks, with minimal zoogenic modifications in the squares. Burning and trampling is present in each square. Abrasion is high and is likely related to trampling as bones also have trampling striations. Transverse breakage patterns are also present, and, in combination with trampling and anthropogenic marks, are a strong indicator of intense human occupation. This research adds to the understanding of subsistence behaviour, occupational intensity and site formation at KRM, and in MIS5d more broadly. Middle Stone Age faunal assemblages are often highly fragmented and can present some challenges in faunal analysis. This study shows that highly fragmented faunal assemblages can provide useful taphonomic information, which will add to the growing body of knowledge of early human behavioural modernity in southern Africa.