Dataset for: Australopithecus at Sterkfontein did not consume substantial mammalian meat

Incorporation of animal-based foods into early hominin diets has been
hypothesized as a major catalyst of important evolutionary events,
including brain expansion. However, direct evidence of the onset and
evolution of animal resource consumption in hominins remains elusive. The
nitrogen-15-to-nitrogen-14 ratio of collagen provides trophic information
about individuals in modern and geologically recent (<200,000 year)
ecosystems, but diagenetic loss of this organic matter precludes studies
of greater age. In contrast, nitrogen within tooth enamel is preserved for
millions of years. Here, we report enamel-bound organic nitrogen and
carbonate carbon isotope measurements of Sterkfontein Member 4 mammalian
fauna, including seven Australopithecus specimens. Our results suggest a
variable but plant-based diet (largely C3) for these hominins. Therefore,
we argue that Australopithecus at Sterkfontein did not engage in regular
mammalian meat consumption.