Stable isotope evidence for mid-Pleistocene paleoenvironmental conditions at the site of Kathu Pan 1 (central interior, South Africa)

摘要: Abstract This study investigates the Mid-Pleistocene paleoenvironment and dietary behaviour of ancient herbivores in South African central interior, today part semi-arid Kalahari savanna. Analyses were undertaken carbon (δ13C) oxygen (δ18O) stable isotopes tooth enamel carbonate twelve fossil herbivore species from Layers 4b 4a, associated with Earlier Stone Age (ESA) transitional ESA-Middle (Fauresmith) industries respectively, at archaeological site Kathu Pan 1. The data are compared other Eearly to assemblages located namely Cornelia-Uitzoek, Wonderwerk Cave Florisbad Spring. Results indicate that median δ13C values for all ungulate taxa >-4‰, indicating predominantly C4 based diets, although certain taxa, some individuals included a significant C3 component their diet. δ18O most relatively low, suggesting cooler and/or wetter climate. Carbon isotope evidence dominated habitats Kathu, but larger amongst grazers than today, resembles Early -Mid-Pleistocene region. Similarly, supplement existing region was substantially modern times.