Subsistence and Behavioral Variation in the Neolithic Meuse Basin (BE): Insights From Dental Collections

Abstract

Objectives

This study aims to investigate the Neolithic subsistence and population diversity in the 4th and 3rd millennia bce within Belgium's Meuse basin. The main objectives are to shed light on lifeways and cultural differences among groups known from collective cave burials. It focuses on dietary habits and behavioral practices through dental anthropology.

Materials and Methods

Commingled dental collections from four cave sites (Ben Ahin, La Faucille, Maurenne, and Bois Madame) were analyzed. A total of 1916 permanent teeth were examined for various oral conditions, including caries, calculus, dental wear patterns, trauma, and chipping.

Results

Oral health conditions and dental wear patterns were in line with those associated with terrestrial diets and farming-related subsistence. Inter-site comparisons revealed significant variability in dental indicators of diet, health, and behavior between groups. Variations were found in caries and calculus prevalence. Also, significant differences in chipping and extra-masticatory wear are evident.

Discussion

The findings support hypotheses of agricultural subsistence and provide evidence for group differentiation. Distinct habits for food processing or material cultures were evident among populations.

Conclusion

This study highlights inter-site variations within four Neolithic cave burials in the Belgian Meuse basin.