The practice of historical ecology: What, when, where, how and what for

Abstract

In recent decades, there has been a growing number of studies exploring the historical dimensions of the interconnectedness of human societies and the environment. A core approach in this field is historical ecology. We analyzed 544 historical-ecological papers to assess patterns and trends in the field. We found a high degree of interdisciplinarity with a focus on local case studies, of periods of fewer than 500 years, analyzing archival sources through quantitative approaches. The proportion of papers containing management recommendations has increased over time. To make historical ecology globally relevant, more effort should be made to utilize studies across languages, borders and worldviews. We call for high standards regarding the use of social scientific methodologies. Lastly, we argue that fostering longer-term studies and assessing the real-life impact of policy recommendations emerging from historical ecology can help the discipline better contribute solutions to the challenges facing humanity in an uncertain future.

Population structure of Dugong dugon across the Indo-Pacific revealed by historical mitogenomes

“…Moreover, these regions have been significant focal points of human hunting in the past with evidence of marine exploitation going back thousands of years [4]. In order to obtain a better understanding of global anthropogenic impacts [5], we require further investigation and focus on these tropical and subtropical marine ecosystems, and their key components.…”