- The Tainos were skilled and experienced farmers, utilising the varied ecological niches of their islands to cultivate a considerable range of crops.
- They engaged in a form of slash-and-burn agriculture, cutting and burning small sections of forest to create planting areas known as "conucos."
- Their crop diversity included diverse root vegetables, such as cassava and sweet potatoes, along with beans, peppers, and maize (corn).
- To enhance soil fertility and increase crop yields, the Tainos applied plant matter and animal waste to their fields.
Fishing:
- The Tainos made use of their proximity to the ocean and rivers for sustenance through fishing.
- They developed sophisticated techniques for fishing, employing a range of fishing gear, such as nets, traps, spears, hooks, and lines.
- Various fish species were vital sources of protein for the Tainos, including snappers, sea bass, groupers, and shellfish like conch and oysters.
Hunting and Gathering:
- The Tainos engaged in hunting and gathering as supplementary means to acquire food and materials for their daily lives.
- Hunting involved techniques like setting snares, traps, and using bows and arrows to catch small animals, birds, and the semi-wild "hutia" rodents.
- They gathered a variety of fruits, nuts, and wild plants that complemented their diet and provided essential nutrients.
Village Construction and Architecture:
- The Tainos built their villages strategically near water sources, such as rivers, lakes, and seashores, facilitating trade, transportation, and access to resources.
- Their settlements consisted of large, communal roundhouses called "bohios" with cone-shaped thatched roofs, providing shelter and communal spaces.
- Bohios were constructed with sturdy wooden posts and interwoven plant material, allowing for natural air circulation and protection against the elements.
Religious and Ceremonial Structures:
- The Tainos erected specialised religious and ceremonial structures known as "bateys" within their villages.
- These bateys served as sacred sites for religious rituals, ceremonies, and gatherings, often featuring a central gathering space enclosed by wooden posts.
- The Tainos also constructed special platforms called "duhos" for their spiritual leaders, "caciques," and other respected individuals.
Navigation and Transportation:
- The Tainos possessed remarkable navigation skills, enabling them to traverse the waters surrounding their islands efficiently.
- They primarily used dugout canoes, expertly carved from large tree trunks, for transportation, fishing, and inter-island communication.
- Their understanding of ocean currents and constellations aided them in navigating safely and venturing beyond their immediate island territories.
Herbal Medicine and Healing Practices:
- The Tainos displayed a deep knowledge of medicinal plants, utilising their healing properties to treat various ailments and afflictions.
- Traditional healers, known as "bohíques," held important positions in Taino society, providing medical care and spiritual guidance.
- They administered herbal concoctions, performed therapeutic massages, and incorporated spiritual elements into their healing practices.
Ceramics and Artistic Expressions:
- The Tainos excelled in crafting beautiful and intricate pottery. Their ceramics had varied uses, including food preparation and storage, water containers, and ceremonial objects.
- They adorned their ceramics with artistic designs, symbols, and iconography that reflected their cultural beliefs and narratives.
- Stone and wood carvings also played a significant role in Taino art, showcasing their creativity and cultural expressions.