Комплексные исследования зоогенных отложений Гум-Баши (Карачаево-Черкесская республика, РФ)
Comprehensive Studies of the Gum-Bashi Zoogenic Deposits (Karachay-Cherkess Republic, Russian Federation)

Summary/Abstract: This paper presents the findings from an analysis of the Gum-Bashi zoogenic (dung) deposits, which formed beneath a rock shelter through its historical use as a livestock pen. Employing an integrated research approach, the existence of transhumance in the Gum-Bashi pass area (2100 m above sea level) during the 8th—9th, 15th—17th centuries, and subsequent periods is confidently substantiated. Evidence from spore-pollen, archaeobotanical, and anthracological analyses suggests that grazing activities in subalpine meadows commenced in late spring, with livestock returning to lowland areas in early autumn. The identification of broomcorn millet caryopses indicates this grain was part of the shepherds’ diet. Locally sourced woods, specifically birch and willow, were utilized as fuel. A high proportion of aster and legume pollen within the spore-pollen spectra points to the sustained and intensive use of pasture meadows from the late Middle Ages through to the present. Stable isotope analyses reveal alternating periods of aridity (Medieval Climatic Anomaly) and humidity (Little Ice Age and contemporary conditions from the 1990s to 2015). Furthermore, the significant presence of lime in the anthracological spectrum may reflect its increased availability resulting from altitudinal belt shifts during the 10th—13th centuries. In summary, comprehensive investigations of dung deposits yield valuable insights into both historical human economic activities and prevailing environmental conditions.

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