Diversified crop indigenous system and local development in Ecuadorian Amazonia

Main Article Content

Ruth I. Arias Gutiérrez

Abstract

Amazon Kichwa agrobiodiverse system is
analyzed, focusing on the main promising species capable
of added value, which are associated to diversified crops,
income and economic quantification of agrobiodiversity
profitable forms, as elements to establish sustainable
local development strategies for rural communities in the
colonized sub Andean central sector. Qualitative methods
were used by means of registering in nine research events
with communities and its regional organizations as well
as quantitative methods through 64 surveys applied to six
rural communities down, mid and upstream of Anzu river.
Up to 482 flora species were recorded but not their uses; a
list of cultivated species is established based on its usage,
consumer acceptance, relative abundance and possibility
of added value; undervaluing of system contribution is
analyzed, since its quantification does not exceed 15 %
of total family incomes, although communities establish
67 % dependence on forest and agricultural resources for
food livelihood. Joint and permanent processes, projects
and plans are suggested, known at community meetings,
based on a participatory dialogue, a legal agreement and
respectful ethics to collective rights, which enable to keep
partnerships between universities, communities and other
entities, in order to investigate, argue and share benefits,
information, technology and knowledge transfer.

Article Details

How to Cite
Arias Gutiérrez, R. I. (2016). Diversified crop indigenous system and local development in Ecuadorian Amazonia. Cultivos Tropicales, 37(2), 7–14. Retrieved from https://ediciones.inca.edu.cu/index.php/ediciones/article/view/1224
Section
Original Article