SEASTARS
The Zooarchaeology of Shipwrecks
Author(s): Jacob Shidner , Dr. John Bratten
Abstract:
Faunal remains have been examined from archaeological contexts to such a degree that it
has its own subfield, Zooarchaeology. Zooarchaeology has answered questions on terrestrial
sites concerning topics such as animal domestication, site use, and hunting patterns.
However, the zooarchaeology concerning shipwrecks has been limited to little more than
describing what was eaten during voyages. This poster will illustrate the conservation,
identification, and examination of fauna remains from shipwrecks, specifically the Emanuel
Point wrecks, including food remains as well as the remains of other non-human passengers.
It will also illustrate how cut marks and breakage can be identified, as well as any
evidence of disease. An overview of possible applications of this data and how it can be
used to answer questions about the wrecks and the people living aboard the ships at the
time is also provided.