Femoral cross-sectional geometry in the amazigh population of Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain): Insights into mobility patterns on an island landscape

Abstract

Objectives This study analyzes the relationship between femoral cross-sectional geometric properties (CSGP) and the topographic features of Gran Canaria (Canary Islands, Spain) in the Amazigh population. We assess individual variation and differences by region (Inland vs. Coast) and sex to infer mobility patterns. Materials and Methods The sample comprises 110 complete adult femora representing a minimum of 88 individuals from eight Amazigh period sites (5th–15th centuries ce) located in both inland and coastal regions. Sex estimation was conducted using a combination of paleogenomic data, mathematical methods, and morphological traits. Geospatial analyses using GIS allowed us to estimate calculated catchment area (A) and average slope (AS) for each site. CSGP were obtained via CT at 20%–80% of bone biomechanical length. Results Significant differences were found between inland and coastal sites in A and AS values. Regional variations in femoral geometry appeared primarily at mid-proximal diaphyseal levels, with a tend coastal showing stronger femora and greater resistance to bending and torsional forces than inland individuals. Sex-related differences were significant across most femoral levels, with males displaying larger areas and second moment of area than females. Discussion Femoral CSGP in the Amazigh population of Gran Canaria indicates similar mobility patterns across regions, likely shaped by the island's rugged terrain, with a slightly higher mobility pattern observed in the coastal areas. Additionally, sex-gender related differences in femoral properties suggest a higher mobility activity in males probably due to a division of labor.