The Calusa were a Native American tribe that lived in what is now southern Florida, particularly around the southwestern coast. They were known for their complex society, which thrived on fishing, hunting, and gathering. The Calusa built large shell mounds and used canoes to navigate the waterways, relying heavily on the abundant resources of the region. The Calusa were unique among Native American tribes because they did not practice agriculture. Instead, they focused on fishing and gathering shellfish, which formed the basis of their diet. Their society was organized into chiefdoms, with a powerful leader known as the chief overseeing various clans and communities.