The forgotten mid vowels: Reconstructing the history of the Proto-Pano vowel system

Zariquiey R.; Blum F.; Valenzuela P. · Diachronica (2026) · DOI: 10.1075/dia.25015.zar

Resumen

Abstract – This study re-examines the phonological inventory of Proto-Pano, challenging the prevailing view that it had only four oral vowels. Through a comparative analysis of 23 contemporary Pano languages/varieties, we reconstruct a Proto-Pano system with two additional mid vowels, proposing a six-vowel inventory. This finding diverges from all previous reconstructions, which overlooked historically significant distributional differences between mid vowels in Northern Pano languages, Kakataibo, and Kaxarari. We argue that Pano mid vowels exhibit both conservative and innovative traits, questioning the assumption that all Pano mid vowels are innovations. Our analysis highlights the role of merger in shaping Pano phonological diversity, supporting a six-vowel reconstruction as a more accurate reflection of the comparative data. This revised perspective underscores the importance of carefully analyzing sound correspondence patterns and offers new insights into the historical evolution and internal classification of the Pano language family. Additionally, it calls for a thorough revision of previous Proto-Pano reconstructions and opens promising avenues for future research on the Pano-Takana stock. 2026 © John Benjamins Publishing Company

Instituciones: Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú