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Using niche construction theory to generate testable foraging hypotheses at Liang Bua.

Elizabeth G Veatch^1,2, Erik J Ringen¹, Megan B Kilgore¹

¹Department of Anthropology, Emory University, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

Evolutionary Anthropology

|February 2, 2021

Summary

Niche construction theory (NCT) and optimal foraging theory (OFT) can be integrated to create testable models for interpreting hominin foraging behavior using zooarchaeological data.

Keywords:

Homo floresiensis archaeological theory extended evolutionary synthesis foraging theory optimal foraging theory zooarchaeology

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Area of Science:

Paleoanthropology
Archaeology
Evolutionary Ecology

Background:

Niche construction theory (NCT) offers a novel framework for zooarchaeological interpretation.
The testability of NCT for hominin foraging behavior remains a subject of debate when compared to optimal foraging theory (OFT).

Purpose of the Study:

To develop an optimization foraging model incorporating NCT features to address the archaeological record's limitations.
To evaluate the combined utility of NCT and OFT for inferring hominin foraging strategies.

Main Methods:

A review of optimal foraging theory (OFT) and niche construction theory (NCT) was conducted.
An optimization foraging model was designed, integrating NCT principles with considerations for predation risk, mortality, and payoff ratios in varied ecologies.
The model was applied to zooarchaeological data for Homo floresiensis on Flores Island.

Main Results:

The developed model accounts for environmental factors and the destructive nature of the archaeological record.
The application to Homo floresiensis suggests the model's efficacy in inferring environmental exploitation patterns.

Conclusions:

Niche construction theory (NCT) can be effectively combined with optimal foraging theory (OFT) principles.
This integration yields testable foraging hypotheses applicable to zooarchaeological research, enhancing our understanding of hominin behavior.