Stable isotope analysis reveals Bronze Age diets at Deh Dumen Iran

Abstract

This study presents the first carbon and nitrogen stable isotope data from human bone collagen recovered from the Bronze Age Deh Dumen cemetery (ca. 2500–1500 BCE) in the southern Zagros Mountains. The isotopic values (δ¹³C = − 22.9‰ to − 18.4‰; δ¹⁵N = 6.1‰ to 10.5‰) indicate diets predominantly based on terrestrial C₃ resources, with variability in δ¹³C suggesting minor contributions from C₄ plants or the consumption of animals grazing on C₄ vegetation. Human δ¹⁵N values substantially overlap with regional herbivore baselines, pointing to a dietary protein intake in which plant-derived resources played a major role, complemented by moderate and heterogeneous inputs from terrestrial animal products. Elevated δ¹⁵N values among a few individuals may reflect limited freshwater fish consumption, though multiple interpretations remain possible. Overall, the isotopic evidence is consistent with subsistence practices that incorporated elements of pastoralism without indicating a heavy reliance on meat or dairy. As the first isotopic investigation from Deh Dumen, this study provides an essential comparative reference for future research and contributes to a more nuanced understanding of Bronze Age lifeways in the Zagros region. Keywords: Deh Dumen graveyard, Southern Zagros, Paleodiet, Stable isotope analysis, Bone collagen, Bronze Age Subject terms: Bioanalytical chemistry, Stable isotope analysis, Palaeoecology