Fish for the Wealthy? Pike Trade in the 13th-17th century Baltic Sea region

Lead Research Organisation: University of York
Department Name: Archaeology

Abstract

"Northern pike was a primary food fish around the 13th-17th century Baltic, variously serving as a high-status food and as a staple. Historical and archaeological evidence indicate significant trade in pike, but provide little insight into catch locations or the extent of networks.
This project explores the economic role of Baltic pike via a) synthesis of existing bone data, including size, butchery, and body-part profiles, to assess consumption patterns and preservation methods; b) stable isotope analysis to distinguish coastal vs freshwater pike and identify non-local catches, including a novel application of oxygen isotopes to pike teeth."

Publications

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