Sirionó

Sirionó

 

an Indian tribe living in the tropical forests of eastern Bolivia. The Sirionós, who number approximately 1,000, speak a language of the Tupi-Guarani family. Various spirits are still worshiped by tribe members. The Sirionós are divided into nomadic matrilineal communities consisting of 30 to 120 individuals. Each community lives in a single hut, which is covered with palm leaves. The chief occupations are hunting and gathering. There is also some primitive agriculture; sweet manioc, maize, and yams are grown in natural clearings in the forest.

REFERENCE

Holmberg, A. R. Nomads of the Long Bow: The Sirionó of Eastern Bolivia. Washington, D.C., 1950.