Examining Causes and Trends in Marine Trophic Level Change: 1500 Years of Fish Exploitation at Fatu-ma-Futi, Tutuila Island, American Sāmoa

Abstract

ABSTRACT Excavations at Fatu-ma-Futi, Tutuila Island, American Sāmoa reveal a rich cultural deposit spanning approximately 1500 years (1620–150 cal BP). Abundant cultural material was recovered, including a large assemblage of fish remains. We present our analysis of a sample of the fish remains, including a trophic level analysis applied to the assemblage to document patterns in fish community structure and composition. Results indicate relative stability in the mean trophic level of fish families exploited through time. A minor decrease in trophic level is documented between 300–100 cal BP. The relative abundance of fish feeding classes suggests that two inshore herbivore families, surgeonfish (Acanthuridae) and parrotfish (Scaridae), increase through time. Further research is needed to document the extent to which these patterns result from environmental, cultural, or methodological variables.