Assessing the Efficacy of Genus-Level Data in Archaeomalacology: A Case Study of the Hawaiian Limpet (Cellana spp.), Moloka‘i, Hawaiian Islands

Abstract

The level to which faunal remains are taxonomically identified is of fundamental importance in zooarchaeological analysis. Species level identifications enable researchers to utilize specific ecological data and facilitate fine-grained reconstructions of human-animal-environment interactions such as prehistoric subsistence strategies, human impact on marine resources, environmental reconstruction, and contemporary animal management. A case study from a late prehistoric habitation complex at Kealapupuakiha, Moloka‘i, Hawaiian Islands, was employed to contrast the importance of genus vs. species-level identifications. Excavations yielded a large, well-preserved shellfish assemblage dominated by three endemic limpet species, Cellana exarata, C. sandwicensis, and C. talcosa. While these three limpets may be distinguished from each other with comprehensive reference collections, they are commonly investigated at the genus level (Cellana). Analyzing Hawaiian limpets to species-level allowed us to characterize the Kealapupuakiha inhabitants as a flexible group of harvesters who adjusted their species-specific subsistence strategies in response to resource fluctuations. We document that species-level determinations yield higher resolution data which is essential for addressing a broader suite of research questions and promotes refined interpretations of the past.