Variability of Fish Assemblages throughout the Holocene in Northern Chile (18–31°S)

Our study provides a synthesis and assessment of the ichthyoarchaeological record for pre-Columbian human occupations during the Holocene (ca. 12,000 BP – 1492 AD) on the coast of northern Chile (18-31°S), on the Pacific coast of South America. We focus on the variability of fish assemblages, using data obtained from publications between 1979 and 2023. We standardise and compare ichthyoarchaeological data, applying qualitative and quantitative indices, including a comparison with modern data that uses a statistical analysis previously proposed for the Atlantic coast of Brazil. Together with observed variations in the ichthyoarchaeological assemblages, there are statistical differences between archaeological and modern samples. Beyond this variability, the recurrence of Trachurus murphyi (Chilean jack mackerel), Cilus gilberti (corvina drum), Semicossyphus darwini (Galapagos sheephead wrasse), and Isacia conceptionis (Cabinza grunt) is noteworthy. On the other hand, the scarcity of some species could be related to fishing dynamics, post-depositional processes, and even analytical procedures. We propose an evaluation that considers methodological potentials and restrictions when applying a regional analysis with heterogeneous published records. Finally, we consider the importance of ichthyoarchaeology for understanding the long-term fish-human relationship.