Abstract

Results of ancient DNA analysis of salmon vertebrae from Namu show consistent use of a wide range of species and particular emphasis on those species, pink and chum, that are most suited for long-term storage. The consistent emphasis on readily stored species and the multi-seasonality of salmon fishing and other subsistence activities indicate that Namu was a sedentary, storage-based settlement from as early as 5000 BC. With the exception of a sharply lower numbers of pink salmon in the period ca. 2000 BC-AD 500, the species profile of the fishery is consistent throughout the past 7000 years. This shortfall in pink salmon may have been the key factor responsible for periodic food shortage and long-term contraction of the settlement at this time.