The human transformation of island ecosystems

Abstract

Abstract ‘The human transformation of island ecosystems’ documents the timing and impact of the human colonization of the world’s islands. It distinguishes between palaeoinhabited islands (settled > 2 ka), neoinhabited islands, and those first colonized during the European age of expansion (15th century onwards). It describes the great range in initial contact and settlement dates within each major ocean basin. It describes the concept of a prehistoric island survival kit, the package of commensals, and practices underpinning multiple successful colonization events. It notes that modern European colonization frequently induced dramatic changes to earlier island peoples and societies as well as to island environments and biotas, although prehistoric settlement was also typically impactful. It provides accounts for the Caribbean, Micronesia, Macaronesia, and Polynesia (e.g. Rapa Nui/Easter Island), demonstrating subtle differences in the transformation and biotic homogenization of islands brought about by the different cultural waves that have swept over the world’s islands.