A molecular analysis of dietary diversity for three archaic Native Americans

DNA was extracted from three fecal samples, more than 2,000 years old, from Hinds Cave, Texas. Amplification of human mtDNA sequences showed their aff iliation with contemporary Native Americans, while sequences from pronghorn antelope, bighorn sheep, and cottontail rabbit allowed these animals to be identified as part of the diet of these individuals. Furthermore, amplific ation of chloroplast DNA sequences identified eight different plants as die tary elements. These archaic humans consumed 2-4 different animal species a nd 4-8 different plant species during a short time period, The success rate for retrieval of DNA from paleofeces is in strong contrast to that from sk eletal remains where the success rate is generally low. Thus, human paleofe cal remains represent a source of ancient DNA that significantly complement s and may in some cases be superior to that from skeletal tissue.