Shima, Shimaguni and Aquapelagic Assemblages

Human activity sustains aquapelagic assemblages, as demonstrated by the case of Nan Madol in Pohnpei (Micronesia). The study reveals that these cultural landscapes, characterized by artificial stone structures and megaliths built above sea level, thrive on continuous 'disturbance'—whether through prehistoric construction or modern tourism. This finding parallels the concept of shima in Japanese culture, where human intervention shapes island ecosystems. By analyzing Nan Madol's micro-ecosystem, the research illustrates how cultural practices maintain sustainability, offering insights into the resilience of such assemblages over time.

Suwa, J. (2024). Shima, Shimaguni and Aquapelagic Assemblages. Aquapelagos, 22–30. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781003569534-2