Estudios de isótopos estables en huertas familiares actuales de la Quebrada de Humahuaca (Jujuy, Argentina). Su potencial aporte a los estudios paleodietarios del Noroeste argentino

A study on the Quebrada de Humahuaca, Argentina, reveals that soil nutrient availability significantly influences nitrogen isotope values (?15N) in maize (Zea mays), even in semi-arid environments. This finding underscores the potential of stable isotope analysis to refine paleodietary studies by providing a baseline for understanding dietary practices in ancient societies. The research proposes a methodological framework combining interviews with local farmers, soil chemical characterization, and isotopic analysis of six plant species—including maize, potatoes (Solanum tuberosum), oca (Oxalis tuberosa), ulluco (Ullucus tuberosus), quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), and prickly pear (Opuntia ficus-indica)—to assess the impact of cultivation practices on isotopic signatures. While no direct linear relationship was found between soil quality and isotopic results, lower soil quality correlated with a broader range of ?15N values in maize, suggesting complex interactions between environmental factors and plant metabolism.

Killian Galván, V. A., Sanmartino, G., Castellano, V., Seldes, V., & Marban, L. G. (2015). Estudios de isótopos estables en huertas familiares actuales de la Quebrada de Humahuaca (Jujuy, Argentina). Su potencial aporte a los estudios paleodietarios del Noroeste argentino. Revista Del Museo de Antropología, 107–118. https://doi.org/10.31048/1852.4826.v8.n2.9167