Early people in what is now southern chile relied on shellfish and seals for food because?

Early people in what is now southern Chile relied on shellfish and seals for food primarily due to the availability of these resources in the coastal environment. The region's rich marine ecosystem provided a steady supply of seafood, which was a reliable and nutrient-rich source of sustenance. The proximity to the ocean allowed communities to effectively exploit local marine life, including various shellfish, fish, and marine mammals such as seals.

Additionally, the coastal geography, with its varied habitats like tide pools, rocky shores, and estuaries, supported a diverse range of marine species. The emphasis on shellfish and seals likely reflected the adaptation of these early people to their environment, utilizing the resources most readily available to them for survival.

Furthermore, the reliance on marine resources also suggests a well-developed knowledge of seasonal patterns and local ecology, enabling them to harvest these foods sustainably. This way of living highlights the importance of marine ecosystems in the cultural and dietary practices of early populations in southern Chile.