archaeomalacology

Archaeomalacology is the study of ancient mollusk shells found at archaeological sites. By examining shell remains—such as their species, shapes, and how they were processed—researchers gain insights into past human behaviors, diets, trade, and environment. This field helps us understand how ancient communities exploited mollusks for food, tools, or decoration, and how their environments and ecosystems have changed over time. It combines knowledge from archaeology, biology, and geology to reconstruct human history and ecological interactions through the study of preserved shell remains.