Neolithic fishing in the South Caucasus as seen from Aruchlo I, Georgia

摘要: Abstract The spread of the Neolithic way life from its centers origins remains one central topics archaeological research, with ongoing debates about importance economic, demographic, and cultural changes in transition. Southern Caucasus, while close to area where agriculture emerged, has remained understudied regarding this spread. Here, information role fish, a topic that been almost completely neglected until now is presented. Fish are scarce region. Moreover, isotope analyses seem indicate freshwater fish were not an important food source. For first time, fishbones have found larger quantities at site Aruchlo I some layers ditches. It largest assemblage bones safely dated sixth millennium BC South Caucasus. interpretation these finds straightforward due lack other comparable absence fishing gear. Fishing appears conducted waters settlement. unclear if was year-round activity, although concentrated different ditches suggests case. We think bounteous catch spawning fishes certain times year can be linked special social events like feasting, showing resource usually greatly underrepresented archaeologically. Introducing more precise recovery methods for animal excavations will hopefully refine our understanding.