What is it about?
This study involved the analysis of hundreds of individual animal bone collagen samples from the Ottoman-period site of Aqaba Castle in Jordan and is the largest of its kind incorporating δ²H values for the region. The analysis of bone collagen δ²H values holds huge potential for increasing clarity in dietary reconstructions and distinguishing isotopic niches. It is an excellent environmental indicator related to water sources, meaning it potentially can be used to track animal migrations and establish ecological home ranges of certain animals. The potential applications of this little-used proxy are exciting to say the least!
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Why is it important?
This study shows that the added value of analysing hydrogen values alongside traditionally used carbon and nitrogen values is its strengths as an environmental indicator. This kind of analysis provides added information regarding livestock management strategies, such as whether animals were consuming irrigated plants or drinking anthropogenic water sources. It also holds potential be used as an ecological indicator to determine the origins of wild herbivorous taxa.
Perspectives
During the writing of this article was a great pleasure to work alongside renowned isotopic and zooarchaeological specialists.
Gene Shev
University of Rome Tor Vergata
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: Non-exchangeable hydrogen (δ2H) stable isotope ratios in fauna provide enhanced dietary, isotopic niche and home range reconstruction at Aqaba Castle, Jordan, PLOS One, August 2025, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0328991.
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