Ethnobiology and Conservation (EC) is a leading international, open-access, peer-reviewed journal dedicated to the intersection of ethnobiology and biodiversity conservation. EC publishes original research that explores the dynamic relationships between humans and nature, emphasizing theoretical, methodological, and applied contributions that advance biodiversity conservation, sustainability, and socioecological resilience.
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Knowledge about bats: implications of popular perception for conservation and prevention of zoonotic diseases
Understanding the popular perception and knowledge presented by a target population is the first step whether we want to optimize conservation efforts. Studies of environment perception can shed some light on society's empirical knowledge about bats for future improvement of environmental and health education. We evaluated the implications of local knowledge about bats on the prevention of bat-related zoonoses, as well as on bat conservation and understanding of ecosystem services performed by bats, and the effect of age and educational level on the local knowledge. With a semi-structured interview, we had 111 participants, passers-by on a square. Those participants who know more about the biology of bats also know more about the prevention of zoonoses and importance of bats, but not about their conservation. There was no relationship between the answers related to the importance of bats with those on conservation, nor between the answers about conservation with those on prevention of zoonosis. Years of study (scholarity) did not interfere with knowledge about conservation aspects and age was not related to the importance of bats conservation, and prevention of zoonosis. We argue that having knowledge about bats is not enough to awaken practical actions for bat conservation.
Copyright (c) 2026 Elizabete Lourenço, Luciana de Moraes Costa, Daniel Damasceno Junior, Michele da Costa Pinheiro, Júlia Linz Luz, Kátia Maria Famadas https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Recife Charter – Pathways for the future of ethnobiology
At the 5th International School of Ethnobiology in Recife (4–5 November 2025), researchers from Brazil and around the world gathered in a spirit of collaboration and shared purpose to envision the future of ethnobiology. This document presents the central agreements and commitments from this transformative meeting, affirming the imperative for an ethnobiology that is theoretically robust, socially relevant, and ethically responsible. The Recife Charter sets forth guiding principles and bold strategic actions for the decades ahead, championing epistemic justice, co-creation, social relevance, methodological rigor, broadened ethics, and responsible use of technology.
Vitória Daniela Figueredo Dutra da Silva
Copyright (c) 2026 Washington Soares Ferreira Júnior, Abdullah Abdullah, Elena Castiñeira Latorre, Thais Samila de Oliveira Ferraz, Marina Barros Abreu, Rafael Marques Guimarães Konopczyk, Vitória Daniela Figueredo Dutra da Silva, Maria Lorena da Silva, Catalina Rico Lenta, Ina Vandebroek, Ulysses Paulino Albuquerque, Anibal da Silva Cantalice, Rafael Ricardo Vasconcelos da Silva, Luiz Felipe Pereira da Silva, Cosmin Marius Ivașcu, Tamires Maria da Silva, Zbynek Polesny, Ana Ladio, Alice Medeiros Souza, Marleny Prada De La Cruz, Arlene Oliveira Souza, Yao Fu, Larissa Trierveiler-Pereira, Yadav Uprety, Heron Luis Barros, Tacyana Pereira Ribeiro de Oliveira, Stéphanie M. Carrière, Rayane Karoline Silva dos Santos, Maria Julia Ferreira, Ouerle Chao, Kaique Caetano Silva, Naji Sulaiman, Paula Thayanne Mata, Rômulo Romeu da Nóbrega Alves, Flávia da Luz Tavares Barbosa, José Cicero Oliveira da Silva, Elcida de Lima Araújo, Micheas Barboza da Silva Filho, Anna Karolina Martins Borges, Arthur Vinícius Isidorio Ferreira, João Victor Alves Cipriano, Eric Bem dos Santos, Ingrid da Silva Lima, José Juliano Lucena da Silva, Marcos Lucas dos Santos Vieira, Carlos Henrique Tavares Mendes, Bruno Nascimento da Silva, Rayssa Lima dos Santos, Guillaume Odonne, Edwine Soares de Oliveira, Bianca Melo de Oliveira, Marina Sunshine Souza Lobo dos Santos, Bruna Ferreira de Barros, Oliver Lopes dos Santos, João Victor Mendes da Silva, Geane Limeira da Silva, Valdir de Moura Brito Junior https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Living heritage: Biocultural conservation on spice cultivation in the Maluku Archipelago, the heartland of Clove and Nutmeg
This study investigates the rich spice culture of the Maluku Islands, Indonesia, focusing on clove (Syzygium aromaticum) and nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) as key biocultural elements across generations. Through ethnographic fieldwork in historic villages across North Maluku and Maluku Province, it documents traditional knowledge, cultivation practices, and rituals surrounding spice-related daily activities. Local communities distinguish spice quality using indigenous terms and maintain sustainable agricultural methods, such as agroforestry with canary trees and gender-related planting customs. The research highlights the cultural symbolism of spices in community identity, healing traditions, and historical resistance to colonial control. Furthermore, it explores the role of intangible heritage in preserving collective memory and sustaining regional to global pride, exemplified by “Kota Rempah” (Spice City) branding to tentative nomination as UNESCO’s World Heritage. The study underscores the importance of integrating local knowledge into heritage management to ensure cultural continuity and economic empowerment. Findings advocate for a holistic approach to recognizing spices beyond commodities as vital cultural, ecological, and historical assets.
Copyright (c) 2026 Hamdani Rais, Muhamad Iko Kersapati, Muhammad Farid, Aswandi Aswandi, Firman Faturohman, Mohamad Avicenna, Zulfa Nadia, Mohamad Atqa, Putri Nur Sarah https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Environmental perceptions of cloud forest conservation in three mestizo communities of Sierra Madre Oriental, Mexico
Cloud forests are highly biodiverse ecosystems currently at risk of disappearing due to agricultural and livestock expansion. Local communities have traditionally relied on them for firewood, timber, food, and water, and other resources. Conservation strategies have often focused on establishing protected areas, yet these initiatives frequently neglect the social component, leading to community rejection and limited success. In contrast community-based conservation emphasizes the role of local people as the main promoters of biodiversity protection. A first step toward implementing such strategies is to assess environmental perception within local populations. This study examined environmental perception in three mestizo communities located in a cloud forest area of the Sierra Madre Oriental, México, through semi-structured interviews. Respondents expressed affection for the forest but did not consider it an economically valuable resource. They acknowledged specific benefits, particularly the provision of firewood, but displayed aversion toward wildlife, especially snakes. Overall, participants showed little concern for forest conservation and demonstrated reluctance to engage in environmental programs, prioritizing productive projects that provide immediate economic returns. Currently, forest persistence in the region appears to be more strongly influenced by external factors, such as agricultural abandonment driven by migration, than by deliberate conservation actions. These findings highlight that before introducing new conservation initiatives, it is essential to inform and raise awareness among local communities about the broader social and economic benefits associated with maintaining cloud forest. Strengthening this understanding could encourage local participation and help ensure the long-term sustainability of these ecosystems.
Community-based conservation – Firewood – Human migration – Forest values – Pro-environmental attitude
Copyright (c) 2026 Yoatzin Castillo-Trujillo, Numa Pavón, Maria Teresa Pulido-Silva, Raúl Ortiz-Pulido https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Social perception of the presence of free-ranging dogs and cats in green areas of a Neotropical city
Social perception of dogs and cats in urban green areas (UGAs) is a controversial issue. Our objective was to determine social perceptions regarding the presence of free-ranging dogs and cats in the UGA of the city of Xalapa, in Veracruz, Mexico, considering human demographic variables. During January-September 2019, we surveyed 480 individuals through a questionnaire with binary responses and Likert scale, exploring their perception of the dogs and cats using UGA for shelter, breeding and preying on wildlife, as well as to determine the perceived nuisance of the presence of excreta and high abundance of free-ranging dogs and cats in the streets and UGA. We also analyzed their opinion of the implementation of mass-sterilization strategies and imposition of fines for irresponsible ownership. Our results showed that male semi-owners of the animals with no university education are most in agreement with these animals using the UGA for shelter, while semi-owners with no university education of the zones of high and medium socioeconomic status are those most in agreement with the dogs and cats breeding in the UGA. Most of the respondents were against the dogs and cats preying on wildlife, defecating in the streets and generating a nuisance through their high abundance. These results show that the social perception of free-ranging dogs and cats is somewhat complex and is strongly associated with demographic variables, which are important to the design of effective strategies of management and raising awareness among each demographic group.
Copyright (c) 2026 Rafael Flores-Peredo, Rocío Angélica Mendoza-Viveros, Isac Mella-Méndez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Local Ecological Knowledge, Fishing Practices, and Perceived Threats among Kichwa, Cofán, and Siona Fishers in the Ecuadorian Amazon
Fisheries in the Ecuadorian Amazon support subsistence, cultural identity, and local economies, yet face threats from oil extraction, agricultural expansion, and overfishing. This study integrates Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) and fishing practices from 53 Kichwa, Siona, and Cofán fishers in seven communities across the Napo and Aguarico watersheds. Using structured and open-ended questionnaires, we recorded information on fishing techniques, seasonal patterns, perceived environmental changes, and threats to fisheries. Fishers reported 30-40% decline in abundance, that over 25% of fishers relate to oil extraction. Results show differences in fishing practices among Indigenous groups and communities, and identify key ecological insights including fish migration routes, spawning habitats, and seasonal abundance patterns. Despite high species richness, approximately 15 species dominate catches. Differences in market access and seasonal isolation also risk the food security of the more distant communities. Our results show that LEK in this data-poor region is not only a source of ecological information, but also a foundation for differentiated governance capacities, with some communities already translating knowledge into collective rules. These findings offer a baseline for culturally grounded, participatory co-management and community-based monitoring of Amazonian freshwater fisheries in Ecuador.
Copyright (c) 2026 Gabriela Echevarría, Rafael Yunda, Fernando Sánchez, Blanca Ríos-Touma, Francisco Cuesta https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Treating scientific literacy as a one-time curricular requirement obscures its cognitive demands and social consequences. Reframing methodology and philosophy of science as recurrent, metacognitive training highlights scientific thinking as a context-dependent way of knowing, essential for navigating complex problems and epistemic pluralism.
Copyright (c) 2026 Ulysses Albuquerque https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Community-based strategies for climate adaptation in rural Mexico: The case of the Huasteca Potosina
For rural communities engaged in rainfed agricultural systems, climate variability and change are substantial concerns. In response, many communities have implemented strategies to face climate challenges. This study examines the strategies implemented by indigenous farmers engaged in rainfed agriculture systems to address the impacts of climate variability and change in four communities in the Huasteca Potosina, Mexico. The research, based on participatory methods, included in-depth interviews with key actors, stakeholder surveys, participatory workshops, and participant observation, as well as triangulation of information. In the study area, erratic rainfall, rising temperatures, and prolonged droughts are the main climate changes that threaten the livelihoods, local economies, and cultural identities of the indigenous farming communities. The most widely adopted strategies to address adverse climate conditions included soil conservation, land management, and participation in working groups. Emerging strategies involve training and capacity building supported by government programs. Necessary but less common practices were mainly associated with water management. The government programs have promoted several of these strategies, while others have emerged from empirical knowledge. A close relationship was found between traditional knowledge, institutional frameworks, and the availability of resources of time and money for the implementation of these strategies. Consolidation of the most effective strategies requires institutional support to be maintained, so changes in current agricultural policy could negatively impact many advances. Effective adaptation strategies in the face of expected climate change must consider the specific socioeconomic, cultural, and environmental conditions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Humberto Reyes-Hernández, Celia Marlene Hernández Alvarez, Alma Rafaela Bojórquez Vargas, Óscar Reyes Pérez https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Exploring biological and cultural factors influencing wildlife relevance for students of a rural school of central Argentina
In the present work, we analyze how biological and cultural factors influence the importance of wildlife for rural high-school students in the Argentine Dry Chaco. Through free-listing and interviews, students identified a total of 51 species of wild animals, and highlighted mammals as the most prominent. We observed a negative correlation between Cognitive Salience and the Ecological Relevance Index (rs: -0.48), indicating that the least easily sighted species were the most prominent. On the other hand, Cognitive Salience was positively correlated with Positive Value Cultural index (rs:0.56) and Integral (rs:0.75), the latter including the negative value of animals. Among the positive contributions (63.1%), the material value predominated (49%) over the non-material value (8.6%) and regulating (5.5%) of the animals. On the other hand, for the negative contributions, the damage caused to domestic animals was highlighted (23.2%). The results suggest a complex network of biological and cultural factors that are modeling the cognitive salience and local perceptions of young people over wild animals, empathizing the need to integrate local ecological knowledge into conservation strategies in the Dry Chaco and beyond.
Copyright (c) 2025 Axel Chiosso, Daniela Tamburini https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Human-tapir conflict: a case report of a lowland tapir attack and a global review of such encounters
Anthropogenic alterations to ecosystems have resulted in proximity between humans and animals, imposing coexistence challenges. Here, we present a report of a tapir attack on a human in the Brazilian Amazon. In addition, we conducted a global literature review covering tapir-related incidents, compiling data from various parts of the world. Data was collected from testimonies from those involved in the incident aforementioned, without inducing the subjects. The global literature review was carried out by searching Google Scholar, digital communication sites, and YouTube for papers reporting attacks by tapirs on humans. In addition to the report described in this article, we found four reports of tapir attacks on humans around the world. In all of them, there were lacerations on the hands, which were possibly used by the humans as a defense. There was only one recorded death as a result of a tapir attack. Our study discusses potential explanations for the attacks since tapirs tend to express furtive behavior in risky situations. This study seeks to deepen the knowledge of the dynamics of human-tapir coexistence to improve conservation efforts and strategies aimed at the well-being of ecosystems. Keywords: Coexistence – Human-fauna interaction – Ungulate
Copyright (c) 2025 Larissa Gabriela Araujo Goebel, Marcela Alvares Oliveira, Gabriela Rodrigues Longo, Mariana Bueno Landis, Emília Patrícia Medici https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
A century-old fishery in Guanabara bay, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Guanabara Bay is an important estuary on the South American coast, both for its ecological role, still sustaining the most diverse estuarine fish fauna in Brazil, and for being inserted in the one of world’s largest metropolitan areas, suffering a historic process of hypereutrophication. The fish weir (FWR), an artisanal fishing practiced for centuries, are responsible for generating income and food security for a considerable number of inhabitants. Our research focused on the Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) as an essential tool to overcome the serious lack of data about this traditional fishery, based on semi-structured interviews with fishers identified by the local community as reliable sources on the history of environmental changes and the production of the FWR over the last 30 years. The reports produced a picture of decline in fisheries production, both in terms of landing values and the reduction in body size of the main resource associated with this fishery, the mullet Mugil liza, and increase costs of construction of the fishing gear. The reports were crossed with information gathered in loco about the construction of FWR structures to determine the extent of the use of illegal mangrove wood. The study reinforces the relevance of LEK for the development of a historical overview of fisheries and highlights the position of fishers towards local environmental management and points of conflict that need to be addressed to guarantee the successful protection of the last mangrove remnant inserted in the third largest metropolitan area in South America.
Copyright (c) 2025 Sérgio Ricardo Santos, Thaís Rodrigues Maciel, Andreia Bazílio Silva, Luiza Chieza Fortes Garcia, Marcelo Vianna https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Fungal Resources for Human Well-being: Implications for Poverty and Gender Inequality in Sub-Saharan Africa
Wild Useful Fungi (WUF) offer substantial yet underexplored opportunities to enhance livelihoods, address gender disparities, and alleviate poverty across Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This paper synthesizes the growing body of empirical literature on the socio-economic and ecological roles of WUF to examine their contribution to food security, healthcare, and reducing the gender inequalities. A systematic literature review of 93 high-quality peer-reviewed studies, published between 2000 and 2024 was conducted using the PRISMA and Cadima methodology. The analysis highlights 396 WUF, 47 of which have documented medicinal uses. These fungi significantly contribute to nutritional diversity through their rich protein content, vitamins, and minerals, and play a crucial role in local food preservation and fermentation practices. Medicinal properties, including antimicrobial and pharmacological benefits, position WUF as promising resources for healthcare innovation. Economically, WUF harvesting and trade serve as vital livelihood strategies, particularly for rural women. Women’s involvement in WUF value chains fosters household income generation and food security. This review recommends the cultivation of nutritious fungal species, strengthening value chains, and implementation of gender-sensitive policies to maximize the sustainable management and utilization of WUF. Keywords: wild useful fungi, gender equality, food security, poverty alleviation, Sub-Saharan Africa
Copyright (c) 2025 Adjimoti, Olyvia, Ndolo Ebika, Cathy Sharp, Minter, Yorou https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Epistemic bubbles and echo chambers in the progress of science
Does epistemic diversity necessarily promote scientific progress, or does this idea persist more as a normative principle than as an empirical finding? In this hypothesis-essay, I argue that scientific pluralism does not automatically entail epistemic fluidity. Distinct scientific communities may share publication venues and rhetorical commitments while remaining epistemically insulated. Building on recent debates about epistemic bubbles and echo chambers, I suggest that even within science, traditionally conceived as a self-correcting enterprise, mechanisms of selective exposure and institutional filtering can restrict genuine epistemic permeability. Frequently presented as an inherently diverse discipline, ethnobiology offers a revealing context for exploring whether declared plurality translates into dialogical openness or stabilizes into parallelism. The argument does not treat ethnobiology as a confirmed case, but as a field in which this hypothesis of pluralism without fluidity can be examined. I invite a reconsideration of how epistemic contact, reflexivity, and institutional design shape the moral and cognitive architecture of scientific progress.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ulysses Albuquerque https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Celebration of the International Year of Camelids in Santa Catalina, a pastoral community in the Andean Altiplano of Jujuy, Argentina.
The United Nations (UN) declared the year 2024 as the International Year of Camelids, a term that includes both Old World camels and South American camelids. The official organization of the celebrations was in charge of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and local events were also encouraged to take place. In this context, in the Andean pastoral locality of Santa Catalina, Jujuy, Argentina, the Community Council (which is comprised of three local indigenous communities), together with the VICAM (“Vicuñas, Camélidos y Ambiente”) research group, planned to perform different activities to celebrate the IYC as well as to highlight the community's livelihoods and the vital role of camelids in their local culture. The activities involved different events conducted in the educational community, as well as with the entire town, engaging all the community from children to the elderly, and involving various local institutions. The celebrations reflected the diverse and multiple valuations of camelids from the local worldview. This work highlights the appropriation by an Andean community of an annual commemoration based on a UN resolution and aims to make visible their animals and livelihoods.
Copyright (c) 2025 Bibiana Vila, Yanina Arzamendia https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Rediscovering Crops: DNA species identification and ethnobotanical investigation of chenopods in the eastern Himalayas
One strategy responding to global food security challenges is to enhance the utilization of ancient and under-exploited niche crops. As Quinoa garnered considerable attention recently, research on chenopods in Asia has not kept pace. This study launched a field investigation on the cultivation and use of chenopods in the southern foothills of the eastern Himalayas, an area that may serve as a center for chenopods domestication. By employing DNA analysis, we identified the species involved. As highly adaptable crops, Chenopods are typically cultivated using intercropping practices to support sustainable agricultural production in this region. Our findings reveal for the first time that the chenopods cultivated in this region originated from Chenopodium album, but over time, due to prolonged human selection and environmental influences, distinct morphological traits and genetic variations have emerged, leading to localized varieties. Based on phylogenetic, morphological and spatial distribution analysis, we propose the existence of multiple independent domestication centers of chenopods in Asia. This study not only sheds light on the origin and domestication of chenopods in Asia but also underscores the strategic potential of their nutritional value and unique cultivation practices in addressing climate change, enhancing global food security, and contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ting You, Linying Wang, Yu Gao, Yaofei Tian, Qi Yang, Xiaoyan Yang https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Exploring Human-Flying Fox Interaction in Sabah Malaysia Borneo: Observations, Cultural- Utilitarian Practices, Conflicting Interactions and Trade
Studying human-flying fox interactions is crucial for conservation planning, yet Sabah remains understudied. This study examines cultural and utilitarian practices, hunting, fruit-raiding conflicts, and trade across three divisions—Sandakan (SND), Interior (IRD), and West Coast (WCD). The study used a mixed-mode survey design with semi-structured questionnaires, market observations, and 839 Sabah Wildlife Market Logbook records (2015–2019) across districts in Sabah. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics in R and thematic analysis for qualitative insights. Twenty-three percent of participants consumed flying foxes, primarily for food (69.6%) and traditional medicine (30.4%). The declining flying fox sightings and reduced meat availability suggest population declines. Hunting was evident among Kadazandusun (72.7%), Sungai (18.2%), and Murut (9%) communities, driven by meat consumption (53.3%), protection of fruiting trees (33.3%), selling meat (6.7%), and medicinal purposes (6.7%). Fruit-raiding conflicts affected 48% of participants, with lanzones duku-langsat (33.5%) and rambutan (22.5%) as the most impacted crops. While 78.5% of participants tolerated flying foxes, 21.5% used lethal control methods, including nets and rawai. Market logbooks recorded 23 flying foxes (0.18% of total trade). This study highlights the need for context-specific conservation efforts that integrate local ecological knowledge, strengthen wildlife trade monitoring, and promote sustainable, non-lethal conflict mitigation strategies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lawrence Alan Bansa, Rayzigerson Rodney , Marcela Pimid, Liesbeth Frias, Sergio Guerrero Sánchez, Noor Haliza Hasan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Climate Change Threatens the Geographic Distribution of Cupuaçu More Than Cacao: Insights from Ecological Modeling in Brazil
The perpetuation and evolution of vegetal species can be impacted by climatic changes, and the projection of edaphoclimatic adaptation areas can be studied through ecological modeling. This study aimed to predict the distribution of Theobroma cacao L. (the cacao tree) and Theobroma grandiflorum (Willd. ex Spreng.) K. Schum (the cupuaçu tree) under current and future scenarios to identify areas suitable for environmental adaptation, conservation, and sustainable use. Ecological niche modeling was applied using 33 environmental variables. Results indicated that the cupuaçu tree is more vulnerable to climatic variations, with projections showing a relevant reduction in suitable areas in the Cerrado and Amazon. In contrast, the cacao tree demonstrated greater resilience, with potential expansion into areas such as the Pampa and Atlantic Forest. The modeling confirmed that climatic changes will negatively impact both species, with the cupuaçu tree facing higher susceptibility to loss of suitable areas, while the cacao tree may expand into new territories with appropriate environmental conditions. The study underscores the need for conservation efforts and sustainable use to contribute to the perpetuation of species, drawing from the wisdom of Indigenous peoples.
Copyright (c) 2025 Lean Leal Magalhães, Jennifer Souza Tomaz, Caroline de Souza Bezerra, Maria Teresa Gomes Lopes, Ricardo Lopes, Samuel Freitas de Souza, Carlos Henrique Salvino Gadelha Meneses, Ananda Virginia de Aguiar, Helinara Lais Vieira Capucho, Santiago Linorio Ferreyra Ramos https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Exotic and native medicinal plants used by Quilombola Communities in the Atlantic Forest: Popularity, versatility and exclusivity as proxies for cultural keystone species
Native species used in the traditional medicine of Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities undeniably require conservation efforts. Some theoretical models suggest that exotic species may reduce the pressure on native species by sharing their functions and increasing redundancy within medicinal plant use. As a result, native species would no longer be exclusive. Exclusivity in use, along with versatility and popularity, are indicators of more frequent use, potentially leading to overexploitation. These characteristics are also used to define cultural keystone species. Our study investigated these three attributes in medicinal plants used by three afro-descendants quilombola communities within the Atlantic Forest to identify the role of exotic species in reducing the pressure on native species and to determine possible cultural keystone species in the local medical system. We conducted semi-structured interviews with local specialists and guided tours for data collection. We found no significant differences between exotic and native species in the tested attributes, suggesting that species from both origins share similar use pressures. However, when setting a threshold for the most critical attributes, we observed that, in the resulting list, most species appearing in at least two attribute lists are native. We highlight the need for conservation actions for the species present in all three lists compiled in this study and propose that these attributes be incorporated into the classification of species that form the structural core of a local medical system.
Utilitarian redundancy; Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities; Conservation efforts.
Copyright (c) 2025 Flavia Santoro, Jhonnatas Gomes Paiva, Luíza Gomes Honorato, Mara Lúcia Hora, Mayra da Cruz Nascimento, Marcelo Trindade Nascimento https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Integrating pre-Hispanic human legacy in central Mexico to move toward adaptive land and water management
Culturally integrated approaches to water use and management are critical for achieving IWRM commitments and sustainable development goals. Ancient peoples created Mesoamerica's hydro-agricultural systems over thousands of years, diverting water from mountains, rivers, and springs to irrigate cornfields and orchards. Morelos state, Mexico, has a cultural, archeological, and historical heritage related to land and water control through the use of apantli networks (irrigation channels). However, the current state of deterioration of historical heritage illustrates how ancestral values have been forgotten over time. Morelos is endowed with natural resources such as abundant water and a unique microclimate, but it has suffered environmental degradation in recent decades as a result of high population growth and unplanned urban, agricultural, and industrial development. In order to promote the protection and sustainable management of the apantli network and to raise awareness among authorities and local communities; as well as to prevent negative impacts on this natural and cultural heritage, which contributes to the environmental and hydrological balance in the southeastern portion of Morelos, here, we present some ideas on the role that archeological heritage could play in preserving the values of a cultural ecosystem service (CES) that are critical to the well-being of today’s communities. This study presents the outcomes of restoration efforts derived from a survey and characterization of the apantli network, particularly in the municipalities of Cuernavaca and Jiutepec. We also discussed the main findings of a sociohistorical and functional study that revealed weakness and alternatives in the socioecological system around the apantli network in Morelos. It is anticipated that the recovery of the pre-Hispanic apantli network in the state of Morelos will not only contribute to improved water and land management, but will also help to revalue the historical interactions between people and nature, thereby supporting ongoing efforts in conservation and ecological restoration.
Copyright (c) 2025 Fernando Jaramillo Monroy, Elisabet V. Wehncke, José Luis Rodríguez de Gante, Víctor Hugo Flores-Armillas, Oscar Pohle https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Seasonality and paving affect roadkill rates on a highway in Cerrado biome, Brazil
Wildlife roadkill poses a significant global threat to biodiversity, with heightened concerns in Protected Areas, such as the Panga Ecological Station (PES) located in the Cerrado biome, Minas Gerais state, Brazil. Throughout this research, the adjacent highway to the PES, MGC-455 highway, underwent paving. To assess roadkill rates and explore the potential impact of seasonality and road pavement type, bimonthly monitoring was conducted along the highway. The survey spanned 35 km of paved and 10 km of unpaved road from April 2012 to April 2013, and 50 km of paved and 30 km of unpaved road from May 2013 to April 2015, covering a total distance of 4,820 km. Despite the extended survey period, progress in the highway's paving remained minimal. A total of 87 individuals were identified, comprising 38 birds, 24 reptiles, 17 mammals, and eight amphibians. Across the documented species (37 in total), there were 15 bird species, 12 reptile species, eight mammal species, and two amphibian species. The roadkill rate for wild vertebrates was 0.008 individuals/km/day, likely underestimated. Reptile roadkill was notably prevalent during the rainy season. Roadkill rates were approximately six times higher on paved stretches (0.006 individuals/km/day) compared to unpaved sections (0.001). The presence of endangered species in the area emphasizes the ongoing need for monitoring roadkill, particularly with the anticipated rise in roadkill rates due to the continued highway paving. Future comparisons can be drawn between our data and post-paving roadkill rates to assess potential increases.
Copyright (c) 2025 Wanessa Gomes Pereira, Jasmine de Resende Assis, Isabela Solha Basile, Ana Elizabeth Iannini-Custódio, Carine Firmino Carvalho-Roel https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The diversity and traditional knowledge of seaweed in Thai An village, Nui Chua national park, Vietnam
Thai An village is characterized by high seaweed diversity; however, local knowledge regarding its utilization remains limited despite long-term interactions. Seaweed samples collected within 1 meter of a transect line were presented to 33 informants, including traders, gatherers, and consumers, through semi-structured interviews in an ethnobotanical study. A total of 71 species were identified, comprising 28 red, 27 brown, and 16 green seaweed species, with species composition varying across five surveys. The highest diversity was recorded in March 2024 (39 species), whereas the lowest was observed in August 2023 (9 species). Sixteen seaweed species were reported to have traditional uses across seven categories: food, beverages, medicine, fertilizers, animal feed, economic activities, and ornamental purposes. Food was the most frequently cited use (10 species), followed by beverages (8 species). Preparation methods varied, particularly in the production of sweet jellies, which were mainly based on the species used. No significant differences were found in seaweed utilization based on gender, education level, occupation, or involvement in seaweed-related activities. Use Values ranged from 0.03 to 2.15, with Gelidiella acerosa, Hydropuntia eucheumoides, Sargassum spp., Porphyra sp., Betaphycus gelatinus, and Gracilaria salicornia exhibiting the highest values. Fidelity Level values ranged from 2.3 to 100.0, with the “food” and “beverage” categories receiving the highest scores. This study provides valuable insights into traditional knowledge associated with seaweed resources, contributing to the conservation of indigenous practices and fostering opportunities for local economic development, seaweed aquaculture, food security, and climate change mitigation.​
Copyright (c) 2025 Thi-Thanh-Nhan Luu, Bui-Trung-Trinh Le, Thi-Mai-Anh Nguyen, Xuan-Minh-Ai Nguyen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Assessing Indigenous Knowledge on Diversity, Socio-economy, and On-Farm Management Practices of Different Yam Landraces (Dioscorea cayenensis-rotundata Complex) for Sustainable Production in Southern Ethiopia
World’s agriculture mainly relies on cereal crops (e.g., wheat), often overlooking tuber and root crops like yams. Yams are nutritious, climate-resilient, and vital for food security, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa and Southeast Asia. Ethiopia's yam production is crucial for sustainable agriculture, improving nutrition, and significantly enhancing food security. However, research on biotic and abiotic factors affecting Ethiopia's yam production and distribution is limited. This study investigates yam on-farm management practices, conservation status, production constraints, socio-economic importance, and indigenous farming knowledge. The study involved 1125 households in three districts and 14 Kebeles, using interviews, questionnaires (kobo toolbox software, version, 2.4), focus group discussions, and landrace counts at farm levels. The study utilized two-way ANOVA (p < 0.05), Shannon diversity index, evenness, Simpson’s diversity index, and Sorenson’s similarity index. The results highlighted several constraints affecting yam distribution and production, including drought and climate change (97.78%), lack of sustainable seed source (95.64%), market chain issues (92%), high production costs (87.91%), labor cost (73.51%), disease and animal attack (95.64%), staking material (98.76%), tediousness of the practice (95.29%), farmland scarcity (96.27%), lack of training (98.93%), awareness (72.53%), modern storage (84.44%), agro-chemicals (99.73%), new technology (68.44%), credit access (95.56%), and lack of optimized fertilizer rate. Despite strong preference for yam production (70.93%), trends indicate a decline (77.51%) due to these factors. The study identified 27 yam landraces, with Basketo Zone and Wadha Kebele exhibiting the highest diversity (43.30%), and abundance (4.03 ± 1.65) respectively, while 85.71% of the landraces were common across Kebeles. The organization of yam landrace communities is undergoing significant changes due to both natural and human-induced disturbances across all study sites. Consequently, most yam landraces are now cultivated in small plots by a few farmers, highlighting the need for interventions that support on-farm conservation while aligning with farmers' interests to preserve yam diversity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Birhanu Kagnew, Awol Assefa, Messay Mulugeta, Asfaw Degu, Wendawek Abebe, Sebsebe Demissew https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Factors affecting the use and preference of stingless bees in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: implications for conservation
Meliponiculture plays an essential role in the conservation of stingless bees and the maintenance of biodiversity. This study investigated the factors influencing the use and preference for stingless bee species in the state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The species managed and preferred by meliponiculturists were identified, and the influence of socioeconomic and environmental variables on the diversity of managed species was evaluated. Forty-three meliponiculturists were interviewed, reporting a total of 38 managed species. The results indicated that the most managed species were also the most preferred, with Tetragonisca angustula, Melipona quadrifasciata, and Melipona mondury being the most frequently cited. The primary criteria for species selection were ease of management, productivity, and behavior, while financial factors had less influence. Years of experience, education level, and marital status were determining factors in the diversification of managed species. However, the level of involvement in meliponiculture, the number of products sold, and the location of the meliponiculturists (urban or rural areas) did not significantly impact the diversity of raised bees. Although meliponiculture promotes conservation efforts, the management of non-native species to the Atlantic Forest biome requires attention due to potential ecological impacts. The findings of this study can contribute to the development of sustainable management and conservation strategies for stingless bees in Brazil.
Copyright (c) 2025 Juliana Loureiro Almeida Campos, Amanda Soares Miranda, Vinícius Albano Araújo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Worldwide patterns of wild mammal trade are driven by species ecology, evolutionary relatedness, and socio-political variables: inferences from the TRAFFIC bulletin
Wildlife trade is one of the main drivers of species decline and extinction worldwide. Although many studies have investigated the magnitude and extent of the wildlife trade, little is known about the role that species traits play in the trade of species body parts and trade purposes. Here, we test how species traits, phylogenetic relationships, and socio-political variables determine the purpose of trade, number of body parts, species, and specimens traded. We compiled records of mammal trade from the TRAFFIC bulletin (n = 100 bulletins). We fitted Bayesian generalized linear models (GLMs) to test whether species traits influence the number of body parts, purpose of trade, and number of TRAFFIC bulletins per species. We fitted GLMs to test whether socio-political variables influence the number of trade records, species and specimens traded by country. Products of at least 16,279,031 specimens from 458 mammal species were traded, including 162 threatened species (65 vulnerable, 70 endangered, and 27 critically endangered) and two extinct species. Larger and “vulnerable” species are more likely to have more parts traded for more uses, and closely related species tend to be traded for similar purposes. In addition, 127 countries were associated with trade, with high-income countries (those with greater human development index) having a greater number of species traded. Our results highlight the importance of species traits and socio-political factors on mammal trades. We emphasize the need for multidisciplinary research to investigate the species loss due to trade based on species traits and socio-political factors.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hyago Soares, Raynner Rilke Duarte Barboza, Anderson Feijó, Diogo B Provete, Rômulo Romeu Nóbrega Alves https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Employing Local Ecological Knowledge to reveal interactions between artisanal fishers and Guiana Dolphins (Sotalia guianensis) along the Maranhão coast, northern Brazil
The Guiana dolphin (Sotalia guianensis) is a cetacean found in tropical coastal waters of the Western Atlantic, distributed from Honduras to northern Santa Catarina, Brazil. Its restricted distribution and interaction with human activities, such as artisanal fishing and pollution, make it highly vulnerable to anthropogenic threats, being classified as near threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and vulnerable by the Brazilian Chico Mendes Institute for Biodiversity Conservation (ICMBio), the Brazilian Ministry of the Environment's administrative arm. Local Ecological Knowledge (LEK) is essential to understand interactions between fishing communities and this species. In this sense, this study aimed to identify the interactions between artisanal fishers and Guiana dolphins on the coast of Maranhão, aiming to provide relevant information on Guiana dolphins, essential to support conservation efforts for the species. A total of 88 semi-structured questionnaires were applied to fishers from the Tubarão Bay Extractive Reserve and São Marcos Bay, in Maranhão, northern Brazil. The calculated Smith's Salience Index revealed that the most valued ethnospecies are mullet, hake and croaker. Although overlaps between ethnospecies and the Guiana dolphin diet are noted, no direct conflicts were recorded. Some fishers perceive the presence of dolphins in a positive light, associating them with helping them locate fish, while others view the interaction negatively, considering that dolphins feed on fish caught in nets. Most fishers (56.8%) are not bothered by the presence of dolphins during fishing, and 82.95% stated that they do not interfere. Although 45.4% of fishers believe that dolphins can get entangled in fishing gear, there were no records of intentional captures. The importance of conservation and environmental education strategies is highlighted to ensure harmonious coexistence between fishers and Guiana dolphins.
Carlos Henrique Marinho dos Santos Filgueira
Copyright (c) 2025 Carlos Henrique Marinho dos Santos Filgueira, Marcelo Derzi Vidal, Rachel Ann Hauser-Davis, Salvatore Siciliano https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Composition and vulnerability of mixed bird flocks in tropical biodiversity hotspots
The extinction of ecological interactions represents the most dramatic scenario resulting from the massive loss of species. Essentially, mixed-species flocks constitute critical mutualistic relationships for the structure, cohesion, and diversity in bird communities, yet they are strongly threatened by the extensive destruction of primary forests. In tropical regions and their biodiversity hotspots, there appears to be no integrated assessment of mixed-species flocks in terms of composition, vulnerability, or habitat use. Thus, a systematic review was conducted based on 269 studies on mixed-species flocks, including 55 conducted in the tropics from 1963 to 2022. We highlight 367 bird species most frequently found in mixed-species flocks, among which 13 are threatened and 14 are near-threatened. According to global assessments, the Tropical Andes harbor the highest number of threatened species, followed by the Coastal Forest of East Africa, Western Ghats and Sri Lanka, and at a third level, the Himalayas. The Atlantic Forest did not present any threatened species, although it constitutes the focus of discussions concerning mixed-species flocks in tropical regions. Additionally, member species are more vulnerable compared to nuclear species, and overall, forests, savannas, and shrubland formations are the most critical habitats for the conservation of mixed-species flocks in these territories. Therefore, we emphasize that the birds evaluated herein should be at the forefront of global actions aimed at restoring ecosystems, preventing functional extinction, expanding the extent of protected areas, and mitigating the effects of climate change.
Birds. Heterospecific Interactions. Mixed-species Flocks. Tropical Hotspots.
Copyright (c) 2025 Everton Sousa Ferreira, Alexandre Schiavetti, Caio Graco Machado https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Perceptions of wild birds by coastal users in an Argentinean natural protected area and implications for management and conservation
Assessing of local perception of wild birds may assist researchers and managers onto its material or utilitarian importance, either positive or negative. This study assessed perceptions and behaviours of coastal users attending a natural protected area in northern Argentine Patagonia towards wild birds; the ultimate goal was to generate information of socio-ecological value to be incorporated into provincial conservation instruments. A total of 390 structured questionnaires were performed on active coastal users attending open-ocean beaches from the San Matías Gulf, Argentina. Local beaches were chiefly used during the austral summer; such usage ranked higher in residents when compared to those from other groups of users. Main motivations to attend beaches were vacation and relaxation. Over 30 species or groups of species were denoted by the respondents; these encompassed 14 orders and 25 taxonomic families. Large and brightly coloured birds were highly selected by surveyed users. Bird colours, their songs and behaviours were the most salient features highlighted as part of the birds´ attractiveness. Freedom and peace were the most prominent feelings bird caused to surveyed users. Coastal users were highly aware of a group of birds feeding or resting on the shoreline, with their main response being distancing far away while walking. This study is the first approach to a quantitative valuation of contemporary non-material benefits of wild birds in the target area. The information amassed in this study may assist in a better understanding of coastal users´ profile about wild bird, and could be used to improve administration management.
Copyright (c) 2025 Juan Pablo Seco Pon https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
The Ethnobotany in Albania - a transition from folk knowledge to cultural popular studies (1946-1991)
Albania can be considered a country rich in biocultural diversity as a reflection of his high biologic diversity alternated with a rich ethnocultural history. This paper is a historical review of ethnobotanical data on wild and cultivated plants, including the uses and values ​​of medicinal plants, collected through a bibliographic search of various sources written and published in the second phase of ethnobiology (1950 - 1991) (corresponding to the period of the socialist state). The second phase (1950-1991), namely as "the autochthonous ethnobiology of socialism" was developed during the time of communism in the history of Albania and corresponds to the emic and systemic phase. The studies of this period were dominated by the studies of traditional culture and folklore, ethnic culture, popular culture, which is often translated into English as "popular culture studies", taken to mean the totality of ideas, perspectives, attitudes, images and social organization. This review aims to explore how ethnobotanical knowledge was collected, created, and used during the socialist period, not intending to be an exhaustive review of all the materials on this subject.
ethnobiology of socialism, popular culture studies, phyto-folkloric names, popular medicine.
Copyright (c) 2025 Anyla Saraçi, Ani Bajrami, Robert Damo https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Comprehensive Nutritional Composition of Wild Meat: A Systematic Review Using Data Imputation with Artificial Intelligence
While not promoting wild animal consumption, this study acknowledges its crucial role for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLC) worldwide, making comprehensive nutritional data essential for informed dietary assessments and policy decisions. Employing advanced data imputation techniques to address data gaps ethically, this systematic review, following PRISMA guidelines, analyzed 20 peer-reviewed articles and one grey literature document. We focused on the nutritional composition of wild meat from 26 species across mammals, birds, and reptiles. We assessed 10 key nutrients, revealing significant variations. Notably, bird muscle tissue did not demonstrate statistically higher iron concentrations than previously recognized in mammalian muscle (p < 0.05), challenging established nutritional understanding of red and white meat. Reptile muscles contained 60% more iron than mammalian muscles, while bird muscles showed 200% higher potassium and omega-6 fatty acid levels compared to mammals (p < 0.01). Mammalian muscles exhibited the highest zinc content among taxonomic classes. As in the case of non-wild animals, viscera consistently showed higher mineral concentrations than muscle tissues across all species. These findings enhance understanding of wild meat's nutritional value, contributing vital data to food composition databases and supporting evidence-based policy decisions for communities reliant on these resources.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ana Luisa dos Santos Medeiros, Amanda Letícia Bezerra de Oliveira, Maria Fernanda Araújo de Medeiros, Daniel Tregidgo, Eliana Bistriche Giuntini, Elias Jacob de Menezes Neto, Juliana Kelly da Silva Maia, Michelle Cristine Medeiros Jacob https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Variation in ethnomycological knowledge across age groups and length of residency in Benin (West Africa)
The variation of ethnomycological knowledges between age, sex, and ethnic groups has been extensively documented in tropical Africa. However, little is known about the relation between migration events and ethnomycological knowledge as well as the depreciation or gain across successive age groups. This study aims to (1) determine the relationship between the duration of residency within an area and ethnomycological knowledge (number of edible species known by respondents, local nomenclature, and proportion of species whose substrate is known) and (2) assess the dynamic of three variables above across successive age groups. A total of 2,233 respondents were randomly selected for face-to-face semi-structured interviews in nine villages across three community forest zones in central and southeastern Benin. Analyses of variance and covariance assessed the relation between people’s length of residence and ethnomycological knowledge. Differences in knowledge across successive age groups were analyzed using generalized linear regression with poisson error for the number of known species and binomial regression for the proportion of named species and species whose substrate is known. The findings revealed that longer residency correlates with better ethnomycological knowledge. Significant differences (P<0.05) were observed in all three variables across age groups. Knowledge levels varied significantly, with younger generations demonstrating less local knowledge than adults. This decline highlights the need to integrate local knowledge into education programs and combine indigenous knowledge with modern scientific approaches to achieve better social and ecological outcomes, such as sustainable resource management and improved biodiversity conservation. Keywords: Ethnomycology, local knowledge, knowledge incidence, age groups, conservation.
Keywords: Ethnomycology, local knowledge, knowledge incidence, age groups, conservation.
Copyright (c) 2025 Olyvia Gwladys FADEYI, Boris Armel Olou, Apollon Dossou Migan Tadagbé Hegbe, Meike Piepenbring, Nourou Soulemane Yorou https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/