This study measured strontium isotope ratios and calcium to strontium ratios in teeth and bones from Jomon-period burials to interpret a distinctive square bone-gathering burial type. Some individuals in these burials had isotope ratios above the local range, suggesting they grew up elsewhere or ate food from other areas.
Key numbers
- Calcium to strontium ratios (x 10^3) at Hobi: enamel 0.99 plus or minus 0.24 (n = 14), bone 0.34 plus or minus 0.03 (n = 5); enamel significantly higher (p = 0.001) (Results, p. 5).
- At Ikawazu: enamel 1.17 plus or minus 0.39 (n = 21), bone 0.41 plus or minus 0.10 (n = 7) (Results, p. 6).
- Hobi mean isotope ratio of enamel 0.709533 (n = 16) versus bone 0.709103 (n = 6) (Results, p. 5).
Methods (brief)
Enamel and bone were cleaned with buffered acetic acid; calcium and strontium were measured by ICP-OES and isotope ratios by MC-ICP-MS or TIMS against NIST SRM 987, compared with modern plants and terrestrial animal enamel.
Evidence fitness
Supports use of strontium isotope and calcium to strontium ratios to interpret diet and residence in archaeological skeletons. It does not support exposure or toxicity statements.
Limitations
Archaeological remains; bone ratios can be altered after burial; small groups per burial type.
Related evidence
Update history
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