Ethnobiology and Conservation

Argentine Ethnobiology: A Future in Peril

2024-09-25T19:45:48+00:00

Based on an online survey and a workshop with young ethnobiologists, we analyze the current state and future prospects of the discipline in Argentina. The research topic analysis, geographic distribution, and insights into participant motivations and challenges highlight concerns regarding professional development in the context of underfunding and science devaluation within the country. We propose strategies for strengthening the field, including increased networking and improved representation in university curricula.

Is Ethnobiologist Training at Risk? Challenges of a Brazilian Graduate Program

2025-02-25T15:28:00+00:00

The Graduate Program in Ethnobiology and Nature Conservation (PPGEtno, an acronym in Portuguese) was established in 2011 at the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco (UFRPE, an acronym in Portuguese) in collaboration with other institutions in Northeast Brazil. PPGEtno addressed the urgent need to train professionals sensitive to biodiversity conservation issues through an interdisciplinary approach that values traditional knowledge and the relationship between people and nature. Despite its success, PPGEtno faces administrative challenges due to regulatory constraints, which restrict coordination roles only UFRPE faculty members to hold, which is currently limited to just five faculty members from the UFRPE, the program’s host institution. The lack of faculty members aligned with social-ecological thinking at UFRPE exacerbates the situation, putting the program at risk of extinction or reduction to a research line within another graduate program. PPGEtno's academic output is significant, with 96 graduates, 1,473 published articles, and important contributions to Ethnobiology and Ecology. Its publications include high-impact journals and cover a wide range of topics. The program's closure would represent an immeasurable loss for research on biodiversity and human-nature interactions. In this manuscript, we demonstrate the impacts that the absence of PPGEtno could cause, both theoretically and practically. The continuation of PPGEtno is vital for advancing Ethnobiology as a scientific discipline, serving a critical role in training ethnobiologists and fostering new knowledge on biodiversity conservation and human-nature relationships in Brazil and across Latin America.

Investigating cultural ecosystem services of the Caatinga on Flickr

2024-10-22T14:39:43+00:00

Public interest in nature can be promoted through social media by assessing the importance of a species to people and identifying new emblems of conservationist appeal. We aimed to assess the public interest in cultural ecosystem services in the Caatinga (seasonal dry forest). Ecosystem services were categorized based on approximately 1500 photographs posted on Flickr. These photographs were analyzed using manual and deep-learning (DL) approaches. The most observed categories for both approaches were “Enjoyment of the Landscape” (36.8%), “Appreciation of Nature – Animals’’ (25.6%), and “Social Activities” (19.3%). However, we found significant differences between manual and DL classifications owing to the difficulties in classifying categories using the DL model. The findings suggest a low cultural ecosystem service representation on the photo-sharing platform Flickr in the Caatinga region, even after removing 67% of the collected data. This may be attributed to the limited interest in Flickr among the Caatinga residents. Deep learning (DL) techniques hold potential for studying cultural ecosystem services, but their efficacy depends on the algorithm's capacity to discern human-nature interactions and various natural elements. Our observations indicate that increasing the scale of the training and test datasets and incorporating additional categories to account for Caatinga diversity may enhance the results.

Seahorses as flagship species in the largest hypersaline lagoon in South America

2025-02-07T15:24:04+00:00

The flagship species concept is based on the perceived "charisma" of species. While certain attributes have been proposed to predict charisma, support for conservation of flagship species is often driven by local and context-specific factors. The largest hypersaline lagoon in South America has been considered for restoration programs after suffering from decades of urban development and pollution. Recently, the seahorse Hippocampus reidi was reported in the lagoon, generating significant public attention. Inspired by marketing theory, we conducted a study to evaluate people's preferences for various species inhabiting the lagoon. In a choice experiment, participants were shown high-resolution photographs of ten species, including the seahorse, and asked to rank their top three preferred species (most preferred = 3, second most preferred = 2, and third most preferred = 1), as well as their three least preferred species (least preferred = -3, second least preferred = -2, and third least preferred = -1). We calculated a flagship score for each species based on these rankings and compared them using ANOVA. The seahorse had a significantly higher flagship score than all other species, with its intrinsic aesthetic beauty being the main reason for its preference according to participants. This interest in seahorses presents a unique opportunity to apply the flagship species concept as a conservation fundraising strategy, promoting a biocentric perspective of the largest hypersaline lagoon in South America.

Traditional ecological knowledge on stingless bees in two Ashaninka communities in the central rainforest of Peru

2025-03-06T15:32:12+00:00

This article explores the Traditional Ecological Knowledge (TEK) on the management of stingless bees and the cultural use of honey among the Ashaninka communities of Marontoari and Pichiquia in the central Amazon Rainforest of Peru. From March 2019 to November 2022, semi-structured interviews were conducted with seven families dedicated to raising stingless bees. The communities’ knowledge includes harvesting honey, particularly from species such as neronto or pitsi (Melipona eburnea), and shinkenka (Tetragonisca angustula), emphasizing practices that protect tree integrity and align with seasonal cycles. The honey, primarily used in traditional medicine, is valued for treating respiratory ailments, reflecting a deep interconnection between cultural practices and ecological stewardship. Additionally, the Ashaninka identify over 14 plant species utilized by bees to construct their nests, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of local biodiversity. This ethnological report is the first to document these ancestral practices within Ashaninka culture, offering critical insights into their conservation efforts. By integrating TEK with elements of cultural narrative, this study underscores the importance of incorporating indigenous knowledge into sustainable resource management strategies in the Amazon, advocating for a holistic approach to biodiversity conservation that honors both ecological and cultural dimensions.

Non-food uses of sharks in southern Bahia, Brazil

2024-09-25T19:45:45+00:00

Sharks are a highly threatened group, and the threats these animals face also affect the cultural ways artisanal fisher communities interact with them. Consequently, local knowledge arising from human interactions with these animals also becomes threatened, as well as the potential of fisheries management through ethnoconservation. In this sense, this study examines the dynamics of shark use by fishers in northeastern Brazil. In 2012, data was collected through semi-structured interviews about shark uses applied to 65 traditional fishers who use sharks differently. The ways fishers use these fish are changing mainly because fishers informed an overall reduction in shark catches. Thus, the analysis of their uses comprises a historical-anthropological record, as specific interactions are quickly disappearing. Therefore, the variety of utilitarian connections and changes in shark use patterns over time reveal both ecologic and cultural extinction threats of the traditional shark fisheries in this area. We suggest implementing anthropological and biological studies that aim to contribute to the maintenance of the livelihoods of populations that interact with sharks and seek to guarantee the sustainable exploitation of these animals.

The human-feline relationship from a biocultural perspective: perception, knowledge and traditional use of the six Mexican species, in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico

2025-02-25T15:27:50+00:00

The human-feline relationship has been evaluated mainly from the perspective of conservation biology. However, it is important to know the established socioecological relationships, unfortunately, little explored, despite the documentation and importance of these predators. In this study, the perceptions and knowledge were documented, as well as the evaluation of the cultural roles of use carried out by the Nahua inhabitants of the north-eastern region of the state of Hidalgo, Mexico; towards the six species of wild cats. 150 semi-structured interviews were applied and photographs were taken of the evidence of felines or their parts in the possession of the informants. Wild felines are identified with a name in Nahuatl and in Spanish. The species that presented the highest frequency of mention, as well as value of cultural importance, was the ocelot (margay, Leopardus wiedii). Nine categories of use were identified, with ornamental use being the most relevant. In addition, we documented the consumption of lion meat (cougar, Puma concolor) as a complex socio-ecological phenomenon, derived from retaliation. As well as the hunt for a tiger cub (jaguar, Panthera onca), captured in a playful way, despite manifesting full knowledge that it is an endangered species, protected by Mexican legislation and its hunting is illegal. Wild cats, despite their decline due to anthropocentric causes, continue to play a relevant socio-ecological role and are part of the biocultural diversity of indigenous peoples. Unfortunately, negative perceptions and overvaluation of species indirectly encourage illegal hunting or extraction.

Ecological knowledge of oyster (Crassostrea) collectors on abiotic aspects: Implications for co-management

2025-03-07T15:32:23+00:00

Oysters of the Crassostrea genus (Sacco 1897) are commercially and ecologically important species that inhabit coastal and estuarine waters. However, exploitation without proper species management can contribute to declining natural stocks, especially in regions with easy access. In this sense, the objective of this study was to analyze the local ecological knowledge (LEK) of the collectors about the biometry of Crassostrea rhizophorae and Crassostrea brasiliana oysters collected during the seasonal periods (dry and rainy) in the Mamanguape River Estuary (MRE) and the stock conditions of this resource in order to provide information to complement the EPA management plan of Barra do Rio Mamanguape on the northern coast of the state of Paraíba, Brazil. The study was conducted between August 2019 and September 2020 through semi-structured interviews, participant observations, and meteorological data. The results showed the occurrence of oysters (C. rhizophorae and C. brasiliana) popularly named mangrove and bottom oysters, respectively. They were identified according to morphological and ecological characteristics and classified into different size groups. The biometry of the species varies according to the seasonal period; the oysters present a variation between 50-80 mm during the dry period, being larger than in the rainy period which presented a variation of 40-70 mm. In addition, collectors reported that there has been a decrease in stocks and the size of oysters collected over the last decade. According to this information, there is a threat to the sustainability of fishing in the MRE in the medium and long term. Thus, it is necessary to involve the local community in negotiations in defining and distributing management functions, rights, and responsibilities to maintain the livelihoods of MRE collectors and increase oyster stocks.

Strengthening Anoa (Bubalus spp.) Conservation Based on Social and Cultural Community Values in Wallacea Bioregion, Indonesia

2024-12-07T15:01:44+00:00

This study explored the local wisdom of the Pinogu community in the Wallacea bioregion concerning the conservation of the endangered anoa species, with a focus on social and cultural values. In-depth interviews were conducted with 150 households, and the data were categorized into social and cultural themes. Regarding social values, the findings revealed that the community predominantly had a moderate level of knowledge about the anoa (52.0%), while 35% had high knowledge, and 13% had low knowledge. Results from the binary logistic analysis showed that participation in anoa conservation was influenced by three key factors. Those were knowledge of the species, involvement in forestry extension programs, and past participation in conservation initiatives. In the terms of cultural values, although no traditional rules were directly associated with anoa conservation, there were existing regulations that focused on forest protection around Pinogu area and core zone of the Bogani Nani Wartabone National Park. Based on these findings, it is recommended that extension and conservation education programs be intensified for the younger generation in Pinogu community, with active involvement of the community. This approach could ensure long-term sustainability by aligning with forest conservation efforts, benefiting both the local community and broader conservation goals.

The Ethnobiology of Absurdities

2024-09-25T14:30:28+00:00

We are often overwhelmed by a sense of frustration when we observe that certain social issues, rather than progressing, seem to stagnate or even worsen–a rise in violence against women, racism, misogyny, and transphobia. These problems, far from disappearing, raise the question of whether we truly advance toward a higher state of civility or are trapped in an endless cycle of setbacks. The feeling that progress is illusory and fleeting leads us to reflect deeply on the state of science, particularly ethnobiology.

Do scientists know how to cite their peers?

2025-03-02T15:29:33+00:00

Science is often portrayed as an objective and neutral endeavor. However, it is, in fact, permeated by moral and epistemological disputes. Rather than representing a homogeneous or entirely consensual field, scientific practice is marked by divergences that reflect different worldviews, values, and interests. These disputes extend beyond technical issues to encompass ethical and political questions—such as which knowledge is validated, which voices are heard, and which research agendas are prioritized.

Seahorse ecology and conservation in Brazil: a systematic review

2025-02-19T15:26:15+00:00

Seahorses are unique, charismatic, and threatened fish that inhabit some of the most vulnerable marine environments. In Brazil, three seahorse species are recognized as threatened with extinction; however, knowledge of their ecology and conservation is unsystematized and patchy. Using the PRISMA protocol, we performed a systematic review of the existing literature on Brazilian seahorses to assess the current knowledge on their distribution, life history aspects, threats, and conservation efforts, while also identifying research gaps and proposing future priorities. By accessing 289 studies, we found significant knowledge gaps on distribution, population ecology, and habitat preferences, particularly for Hippocampus patagonicus and H. aff. erectus, including critical taxonomic uncertainties for the latter. Despite being the most studied species in the country, H. reidi lacks updated large-scale studies. We evidenced three major threats to seahorse conservation in Brazil: fisheries (both targeted and incidental), trade, and habitat destruction. Furthermore, we highlight emerging anthropogenic disturbances, such as tourism-related activities, as potential stressors to seahorse populations. Weaknesses in the conservation framework, particularly regarding the regulation and monitoring of these threats, require attention. Our findings provide important insights to direct future management and conservation actions for seahorses in Brazil. We emphasize the need for comprehensive studies to address taxonomic uncertainties, clarify distribution patterns, and understand the life history of seahorses in Brazilian waters. This is especially crucial for populations facing human-induced pressures. Given the complex and multi-stakeholder nature of seahorse threats, a multifaceted conservation approach is essential to ensure their long-term protection in Brazil.

Iron Content in Wild Animal Meats: A Systematic Review Comparing Mammals and Birds

2024-11-19T14:51:08+00:00

This study explores the iron content in wild animal meats, a critical component of the diets of several Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLC) worldwide. Our research aimed to: (i) characterize the iron content in the muscles and viscera of wild mammals and birds, and (ii) assess whether wild bird muscle contains less iron than wild mammal muscle. Employing a systematic literature review guided by PRISMA standards and utilizing databases such as Web of Science, Medline/PubMed, and Scopus, we analyzed data from eight pertinent studies. No data regarding bird viscera were identified. Our findings indicate a significant disparity in iron content between the viscera and muscle of mammals, with the former exhibiting over six times the iron content (mean of 15.25 mg per 100g) compared to the latter (mean of 2.24 mg per 100g). Contrary to our hypothesis, the iron content in the muscles of birds (mean of 3.75 mg per 100g) and mammals did not significantly differ (p=0.120), with birds, descriptively, demonstrating a nearly 70% higher iron content. This unexpected result may be attributed to the influence of slaughter methods, such as gunshot, which prevents external bleeding, or animal behavior. Our research underscores the necessity of considering slaughter techniques in nutritional assessments of meat. These findings not only contribute to our understanding of nutritional values of wild meat but also prompt further investigation into their role in human diets, especially among IPLC.