The Claim
The isotopic signatures (δ15N: 4.64‰–5.35‰; δ13C: –20.13‰ to –19.50‰) of domestic animals (cattle and horses) from the Selivanovsky II burial ground are consistent with a C3 plant-based diet and indicate that these animals were the primary protein source for the human population at this site.
What the research says
Supports is higher
Support is ahead, but a single strong opposing study can change this.
These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.
Isotopic analysis of cattle and horse bones from the Selivanovsky II burial site shows they ate C3 plants, and this evidence confirms they were the main source of protein for the people buried there.
See the scientific wording
The isotopic signature of domestic animals (cattle and horses) at the Selivanovsky II burial ground (δ15N: 4.64‰–5.35‰; δ13C: –20.13‰ to –19.50‰) is consistent with a C3 plant-based diet and confirms their role as the primary protein source for humans in this group.
Animals eat grasses and other temperate plants that absorb carbon and nitrogen from the air and soil in specific ratios. These ratios get copied into the animals' bodies as they build bone tissue from their food. When humans eat meat or dairy from these animals, the same ratios get copied into their own bones. The numbers in the bones of both animals and humans match because they both got their nutrients from the same plants.
What the research says
1 studyThe bones of cows and horses from ancient graves show chemical traces that only happen when animals eat grasses and plants common in cool climates — not tropical plants. Since the people buried there had similar chemical traces, it means they mostly ate meat and dairy from these animals.
Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies
Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.