A Cambridge Archaeological Journal issue called Kinship Trouble debates whether ancient DNA should define family relationships. A 2025 Moche study at Huanchaquito-Las Llamas used five methods to identify relatives across four generations. A 2017 Pueblo Bonito study claimed a matrilineal dynasty without consulting communities. Critics Alyssa Mtnez and Keolu Fox argue DNA shouldn't override oral history and archaeology.
Debate over using ancient DNA to reconstruct family and community
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Key facts
- A special issue of Cambridge Archaeological Journal called Kinship Trouble debates whether ancient DNA should define ancient family relationships.
- A 2025 Moche study at Huanchaquito-Las Llamas (Huaca Cao Viejo) on Peru's north coast, around 500 CE, examined the elite Señora de Cao buried in a painted pyramid-temple.
- Five analytical methods estimated biological relatedness; results identified six relatives across at least four generations.
- Isotope analysis showed most group members ate maize-rich diets and grew up in or near the Chicama Valley, while a sacrificed juvenile likely grew up in the highlands.
- A 2017 Chaco Canyon study used aDNA at Pueblo Bonito to describe a matrilineal dynasty without consulting Pueblo communities, drawing criticism from Alyssa Mtnez, Sosti Sosa, and Keolu Fox.
- The critics argue DNA should not be granted automatic priority over archaeology, oral history, and community knowledge.
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