This study combined stone-tool sourcing with strontium isotope ratios in Neanderthal teeth to reconstruct foraging ranges at the cave site of Payre in south-east France. Both lines of evidence point to mostly local to semi-local land use.
Key numbers
- Three Neanderthal teeth were analyzed for strontium isotope ratios (Table 2, p. 5).
- No exposure-relevant strontium concentrations are reported.
Methods (brief)
Tooth enamel was micro-drilled and strontium isotope ratios were measured by thermal ionization mass spectrometry (TIMS) and compared with the regional bioavailable baseline, alongside raw-material sourcing of lithic artifacts.
Evidence fitness
Supports strontium isotope ratios as a record of childhood foraging area. It does not support any exposure or toxicity statement.
Limitations
Very small sample of teeth; paleolithic context with no relevance to modern foods.
Related evidence
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