Publications des scientifiques de l'IRD

Cruz P., Winkel Thierry, Ledru Marie-Pierre, Bernard C., Egan N., Swingedouw D., Joffre R. (2017). Rain-fed agriculture thrived despite climate degradation in the pre-Hispanic arid Andes. Science Advances, 3 (12), e1701740 [11 p.]. ISSN 2375-2548.

Titre du document
Rain-fed agriculture thrived despite climate degradation in the pre-Hispanic arid Andes
Année de publication
2017
Type de document
Article référencé dans le Web of Science WOS:000426690900007
Auteurs
Cruz P., Winkel Thierry, Ledru Marie-Pierre, Bernard C., Egan N., Swingedouw D., Joffre R.
Source
Science Advances, 2017, 3 (12), e1701740 [11 p.] ISSN 2375-2548
Archaeological research suggests significant human occupation in the arid Andean highlands during the 13th to 15th centuries, whereas paleoclimatic studies reveal prolonged drier and colder conditions during that period. Which subsistence strategy supported local societies in this harsh environment? Our field and aerial surveys of archaeological dwelling sites, granaries, and croplands provide the first evidence of extended pre-Hispanic agriculture supporting dense human populations in the arid Andes of Bolivia. This unique agricultural system associated with quinoa cultivation was unirrigated, consisting of simple yet extensive landscape modifications. It relied on highly specific environmental knowledge and a set of water-saving practices, including microterracing and biennial fallowing. This intense agricultural activity developed during a period of unfavorable climatic change on a regional and global scale, illustrative of efficient adaptive strategies to cope with this climatic change.
Plan de classement
Sciences du milieu [021] ; Sciences du monde végétal [076] ; Société, développement social [106] ; Sociétés, développement culturel [112] ; Télédétection [126]
Description Géographique
ANDES
Localisation
Fonds IRD [F B010072442]
Identifiant IRD
fdi:010072442
Contact